Connect with us

Latest News

Andres Iniesta Shines One Last Time In Epic Tokyo Farewell Match

Published

on

AFP 20241215 36QE3VZ v1 Preview FblJpnEspIniesta

Andres Iniesta Shines One Last Time In Epic Tokyo Farewell Match

Spanish football legend Andres Iniesta officially ended his playing career on Sunday in a memorable exhibition match in Tokyo, where Barcelona legends faced off against Real Madrid greats. The 40-year-old midfielder, who announced his retirement in October,…Andres Iniesta Shines One Last Time In Epic Tokyo Farewell Match

 

is now looking ahead to coaching after an illustrious career.

Advertisement

Iniesta’s playing days spanned two European Championship titles and the 2010 World Cup. He captivated over 45,000 fans in Tokyo one last time with the skills that defined his career. During his 16 years with Barcelona, he won nine La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues. His final contribution came with a last-minute assist in the exhibition game, with the Real Madrid defense inadvertently scoring an own goal from his cross to give Barcelona a 2-1 victory.

Reflecting on the match, Iniesta shared, “I think it was a fantastic game for the Japanese fans. If they left happy, then I’m pleased.” Iniesta, who spent five years playing in Japan after leaving Barcelona in 2018, shared the field with former teammates like Xavi Hernandez, Rivaldo, Rafael Marquez, and Javier Saviola. Real Madrid was represented by Roberto Carlos, Fabio Cannavaro, and Iker Casillas, among others.

Despite not being in top form, Iniesta enjoyed reuniting with Xavi on the pitch. “We might not be at the same level we were before, but a lot of our old chemistry came back,” he remarked.

Iniesta’s journey began at Barcelona’s renowned La Masia academy, and he made his debut for the senior team at just 18. Over the years, he made 674 appearances and secured 32 trophies, cementing his status as one of the game’s greats. After a successful stint in Japan’s Vissel Kobe, he played his final season in the UAE.

Advertisement

Looking to the future, Iniesta expressed a desire to stay involved in football, saying, “I’m considering pursuing my coaching license and seeing where this next chapter takes me.”

 

For More Information And News Update, Join Ireporteronline WhatsApp Channel With Link Below: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaV4jB6DuMRgwqnJCF32 For advertisement inquiries only, kindly send a message to 09010649814 on Whatsapp

Advertisement
Advertisement
Click to comment
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted

Trending

0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x