Latest news with #LegendsFaceoff
Times of Oman
07-04-2025
- Sport
- Times of Oman
Real Madrid defeat FC Barcelona by 2-0 in historic 'Legends Faceoff' in India
Mumbai: In a landmark moment for Indian sports, Real Madrid Legends came out victorious by 2-0 against the FC Barcelona Legends as the two iconic football giants reignited their iconic rivalry on April 6 at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai, as part of the much-anticipated 'Legends Faceoff'. The venue was buzzing with energy as thousands of passionate fans packed the stands to witness footballing royalty in action. The electric atmosphere, filled with cheers and chants, added to the grandeur of this historic occasion, as per a press release issued by The Sports Front. Morientes opened the scoring for Real Madrid Leyendas in the 14th minute, capitalizing on a well-worked move orchestrated by Luis Figo and Michael Owen. The second half of the much-awaited Legends Faceoff saw the intensity rise as FC Barcelona Legends pushed hard to break through the Real Madrid defence. With the crowd roaring them on, they turned up the heat, launching wave after wave of attacks. Just as Barcelona looked closest to scoring, Real Madrid Legends doubled their lead in the 69th minute. A moment of brilliance from David Barral saw him skip past two legendary defenders--Carles Puyol and Frank de Boer--before calmly slotting the ball past the goalkeeper. The strike further energized the Madrid camp and left the crowd at DY Patil Stadium in awe. Fans in Mumbai had a memorable night filled with nostalgia, skill, and footballing greatness. With legends rolling back the years, the match was a perfect celebration of football's timeless charm. Barcelona Legends featured: Carles Puyol (C), Jesus Angoy, Vitor Baia, Jofre Mateu, Fernando Navarro, Roberto Trashorras, Javier Saviola, Phillip Cocu, Frank de Boer, Giovanni Silva, Rivaldo, Marc Valiente Hernandez, Ludovic Giuly, Ricardo Quaresma, Gaizka Mendieta, Sergi Barjuan, Xavi Hernandez, Jose Edmilson Gomes de Moraes, Patrick Kluivert.
Times of Oman
12-03-2025
- Sport
- Times of Oman
Football legends Figo, Puyol, Morientes, Quaresma to star in 'Legends face-off' in Mumbai
Mumbai : On April 6 at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, the legends of Real Madrid and FC Barcelona will reignite their iconic battle in Legends Faceoff, an electrifying spectacle featuring some of the most celebrated names in world football, as per The Sports Front press release. Among the football greats confirmed for this highly anticipated showdown are Luis Figo, Carles Puyol, Fernando Morientes, and Ricardo Quaresma, each a legend in their own right. Luis 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. Carles Puyol, a defensive powerhouse for FC Barcelona and Spain, captained 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. Fernando 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. Ricardo 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. Legends share their excitement ahead of the faceoff in Mumbai. Luis Figo said, as quoted by The Sport Front press release, "India, I know you love football, and I can't wait to bring the magic to Mumbai. Let's make this an unforgettable night!" Carles Puyol said, "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!" Fernando Morientes said, "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!" Ricardo Quaresma said, "I've heard incredible things about football fans in India. Excited to finally experience it in Mumbai!". Speaking about this landmark event, John Zaidi, CEO & Co-Founder of The Sports Front, said, as quoted by a press release, "At The Sports Front, we are committed to creating world-class sporting experiences that bring global legends closer to fans. '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 6th." Speaking on the initiative, Anirudh Poddar, COO & CFO and CO-Founder of The Sports Front, said, "The excitement surrounding El Clasico Legends Mumbai has been incredible. With the lineup taking shape and fan engagement growing, we are set for an unforgettable night on April 6. This is just the beginning of something special for football in India." Speaking on the association, Josep Maria Meseguer, Head of 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."
