Lionel Messi and Ronaldinho to reunite for star-studded Diego Maradona charity game
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Lionel Messi and Ronaldinho are set to reunite in one of the most star-studded charity games.
On 14 November, just four days before the 2022 World Cup kicks off in Qatar, Rome's Stadio Olimpico will play host to the 'Match for Peace'.
Pope Francis' foundation 'WePlayForPeace'' are putting on the game, which serves as a tribute to the late Diego Maradona and a slew of superstar names have signed up.
Luis Suarez, Ivan Rakitic, Dani Alves, Angel Di Maria, Maxi Rodriguez, Gianluigi Buffon and Pepe Reina are all slated to be involved.
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Jose Mourinho, current Roma manager, is also participating in some capacity, with Ronaldinho and Ciro Immobile captaining the two teams.
But the charity match has also been boosted with the presence of seven-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi, who has a special connection to Maradona and played alongside him in a rare outing.
"I am grateful to have the opportunity to be here with the Pope and all these great players," Messi said in his involvement.
"It is important that each of us joins this call for peace. We can change things together."
Messi has been struggling with a calf problem of late and watched PSG's 1-1 Champions League group stage draw with Benfica from the Parc des Princes stands on Tuesday.
With focus firmly on the World Cup, it is therefore unknown what exactly Messi's role will be in the charity match.
Messi's first ever goal for Barcelona was assisted by Ronaldinho, who played him through against Albacete with a delightfully scooped pass back in May 2005.
When Ronaldinho was moved on by the Blaugrana, Messi inherited the No.10 shirt that he has become synonymous with in his stunning career.
Messi and Ronaldinho did link up recently for Pepsi's new World Cup ‘Nutmeg Royale' advert, showing off their skills and teaming up with Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba.
Featured Image Credit: Image: Alamy
Topics: Lionel Messi, Argentina, Diego Maradona, Barcelona, Ronaldinho
