Lionel Messi returned to the football fans in Argentina on Sunday evening. The 36-year-old star attacker made an appearance during a tribute for Juan Román Riquelme in La Bombonera, Boca Juniors’ iconic stadium.
Messi and Riquelme shine at a big football party in La Bombonera
Riquelme put an end to his career nine years ago and has been vice president of Boca for several years now, but apparently the legendary playmaker’s farewell had never been considered. That happened on Sunday evening, one day after his 45th birthday, and it became a big party for the (Argentine) football fan.
In addition to Messi and Riquelme, world champions Ángel Di María, Leandro Paredes and national coach Lionel Scaloni had travelled to Buenos Aires. Former players such as Pablo Aimar, Lucho González and Javier Saviola also showed that they had not forgotten how to play football, just as the master himself – Riquelme – sprinkled with passes.
Messi never played for Boca Juniors, but was nevertheless loudly applauded by the passionate fans of the Argentine superpower. And in the second half, Inter Miami’s brand new acquisition also scored his goal by giving something back against Boca’s team on behalf of the Argentinian star team: 4-2.
In the end, it was all about Riquelme, who played more than 350 games for Boca Juniors over two periods. The number 10 addressed the packed Bombonera and showed his gratitude for what football has brought him. “I owe everything to it. I was able to buy a house for my mother with it,” he said.
Riquelme honoured Diego Maradona
Riquelme honoured Diego Maradona and put on the shirt of the Argentinian great. “I was lucky enough to play with the greatest of all time, the man I dreamed of as a child: Maradona. And then I also played with another celebrity (Messi), who I don’t know if he was bigger than Maradona,” he said.
Riquelme concluded his speech with a message for his old coaches and the fans, which created a great atmosphere in La Bombonera. “There are people here that I love, who have taught me a lot,” he said, referring to Carlos Bianchi, Coco Basile and José Pekerman. “A big kiss to all Argentinian fans. I hope you enjoyed this day.”
