Internet Desk: Seven top international footballers of yesteryear landed in Pakistan today to take part in two exhibition matches. The top stars included Brazilian legend Ronaldinho and Manchester United great Ryan Giggs, former England goalkeeper David James, Dutch star George Boateng, former French players Robert Pires and Nicolas Anelka, and Portuguese player Luis Boa Morte reached Islamabad early Saturday morning via a private jet.
Brazil and Real Madrid great Roberto Carlos is also scheduled to reach Islamabad today.
The line-up, dubbed ‘Ronaldinho and Friends’, is set to play with a group of Pakistani footballers for two seven-a-side matches in Karachi on Saturday and in Lahore on Sunday.
Ronaldinho, 37, who won the World Player of the Year twice and was part of the 2002 World Cup winning team, said he is on a goodwill mission aimed at inducing youngsters to play the game.
“I am excited at the prospect of playing in Pakistan,” he said in a statement.
“This is a great opportunity for us to induce youngsters in Pakistan and we will do our best to do that.”
Giggs, who retired after a long career with United in 2014, said he was “privileged” to take part. He replaced former England and Chelsea captain John Terry, who pulled out due to new commitments with English side Aston Villa.
The Pakistan Army is providing security for the players and matches, deploying troops in and around hotels, airports and stadiums over the weekend, officials have said.