Soccer legends Ronaldinho Rivaldo, Havier Saviola, and other former Barcelona star players landed in Israel on Wednesday and are gearing up for two exhibition matches.
FC BARCELONA LEGENDS ARRIVE TO PLAY MACCABI TEL AVIV, HAIFA VETERANS
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The first match against Maccabi Tel Aviv Veterans on Wednesday, followed by a match against Maccabi Haifa Vets on Thursday at the Sammy Ofer Stadium.
As the Brazilian Ballon d'Or arrived he met Tel Aviv's star Eran Zahavi, who also happened to be at Ben Gurion Airport at the same time, heading to Dubai for a vacation. The two shared an affectionate hug.
The iconic Brazilian player, who played for Barcelona from 2003 to 2008, led the team to two La Liga championships (2004/05 and 2005/06), a UEFA Champions League title (2005/06), and one Supercopa de España, also arrived in Israel. He also won the FIFA World Cup (2002), the Copa America, and the Confederations Cup with Brazil. Of course, along the way, he collected every possible individual accolade, including World Player of the Year, the prestige Ballon d'Or, and La Liga's Best Foreign Player.
Just six days ago, Ronaldinho's participation in Barcelona's Legends team exhibition matches in Israel was announced. In contrast, Thierry Henry, who was also supposed to join canceled his visit.
After confirming his arrival in Israel, the soccer superstar said he was happy to participate in the games. "I am truly delighted to return to Israel. I love the country and its people. This time, we can expect a double treat with matches against the legends of the biggest teams in Israel. It's going to be a grand celebration in magnificent stadiums with tens of thousands of spectators."
First published: 20:46, 09.06.23