Legends El Clasico to be held in Mumbai

by Chittu Shetty August 23, 2017

A game, between the legendary players of two of the world’s best teams – Barcelona FC and Real Madrid – the El Clasico, is now coming to Mumbai

Mumbai set to witness a masterclass

The eternal rivalry between Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid -the El Clasico –which was set to be played out in Indian city of joy – Kolkata has now been shifted to Mumbai. While it won’t involve the current set of players of the two Spanish giants, it will definitely feature Barcelona and Real Madrid legends. The exhibition match will be held in the memory of legendary Dutch footballer Johan Cruyff.

However it was Kolkata that has received a blow of missing out an opportunity of hosting El Clasico, since the salt lake stadium is set to be the host for the FIFA U-17 world cup later in October. According to reports in Xtratime, after Rabindra Sarobar stadium, that was set to host the game failed in logistical issues, as a result Mumbai Football Arena will now be the host for this prestigious game.

Also Read: AIFF Technical Committee Proposes Development Plan For Indian Football

The match, which is organised by the Football Next Foundation and would bear witness to the likes of Roberto Carlos, Ronaldinho, Nicolas Anelka, Luis Figo, Carles Puyol and Simao, is being held as a tribute to the late Dutch legend Johan Cruyff. A former Barcelona footballer and manager, Cruyff is considered to be one of the greatest players in the history of football. In an announcement at Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu in May this year, Real Madrid legends Isidoro San Jose, Amancio Amaro and Richard Galeo confirmed the match.

The match, it is said, will be held on 15th September in Mumbai at the Andheri Sports Complex. According to sources, IMG-Reliance will be the event’s biggest sponsor. While Kolkata would probably be upset, Mumbai will be happy with this news as it is set to receive a big boost with this legendary game.