Barca, Madrid greats 'can't wait to bring the magic to Mumba
Barca, Madrid greats 'can't wait to bring the magic to Mumbai' in Legends faceoff
Luis Figo, Carles Puyol, Fernando Morientes, and Ricardo Quaresma are among the football greats excited to bring the magic on the pitch in 'Legends Faceoff'
MUMBAI — As the football’s greatest rivalries coming to Indian soil with
legends of Real Madrid and FC Barcelona reigniting their iconic battle, Luis
Figo, Carles Puyol, Fernando Morientes, and Ricardo Quaresma are among the
football greats excited to bring the magic on the pitch in 'Legends Faceoff'.
This historic faceoff will take place at the
55,000-capacity DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on April 6.
Figo, a Ballon d’Or winner (2000) and a key figure in
Portuguese football history, played for both FC Barcelona and Real Madrid,
winning multiple La Liga titles and the 2002 UEFA Champions League with Los
Blancos.
"India, I know you love football, and I can’t wait
to bring the magic to Mumbai. Let’s make this an unforgettable night!” Figo
said.
Puyol is a defensive powerhouse for FC Barcelona and
Spain, captaining Barca to six La Liga titles and three UEFA Champions League
trophies, while also playing a crucial role in Spain’s 2010 FIFA World Cup
triumph and UEFA Euro 2008 victory.
“India, I’ve seen your passion for football from afar—now
it’s time to witness it up close. Can’t wait to feel the energy in Mumbai!”
said Puyol.
Morientes, a prolific goal-scorer, was instrumental in
Real Madrid’s dominance, securing three UEFA Champions League titles (1998,
2000, 2002) and representing Spain in two FIFA World Cups (1998, 2002) and UEFA
Euro 2004.
“I’ve played in some of the most electric stadiums in the
world, and now it’s time to experience India’s football madness. See you soon,
Mumbai!” added Morientes.
Quaresma, known for his flair and creativity, was a key
part of Portugal’s UEFA Euro 2016-winning squad. The former FC Barcelona and FC
Porto winger also won league titles in Portugal and Turkey, along with the UEFA
Europa League with Porto (2011), cementing his reputation as one of the game’s
most skilful wingers.
“I’ve heard incredible things about football fans in
India. Excited to finally experience it in Mumbai!" stated Quaresma.
This is not the first time Barca Legends are heading back
to India. They last played in Calcutta on September 29, 2018 against a team of
veterans from Mohun Bagan, comfortably winning 6-0.
Speaking on the association Josep Maria Meseguer, Head -
Barcelona Legends, said, "We truly appreciate India's efforts in bringing
a historic match like El Clasico to Mumbai. Football holds a special place in
the hearts of Indian fans, and events like these help strengthen the global
football community.
"A special thanks to John Zaidi and The Sports Front
team for their dedication and passion in making this possible. Their vision and
hard work have created an incredible platform for fans to experience the magic
of Barca Legends and Real Madrid Leyendas live."
Speaking about this landmark event, John Zaidi, CEO
& Co-Founder of The Sports Front, added, "Legends Faceoff is a
historic moment for Indian football, and we are thrilled to bring these iconic
players to Mumbai. This match is not just about football; it’s about
celebrating the passion and love for the game that Indian fans have always
shown. We can't wait for an unforgettable night on April 6."
