The highly anticipated Champions Cup will kick off at 3:00 p.m. local time.
The game will see Barca legends featuring world football greats like Ludovic Giuly, Javier Saviola, Jesús Angoy, Samuel Okunowo, Marc Valiente, and Fernando Navarro.
On the opposing side, the African Legends will showcase the brilliance of some of the continent’s greatest football heroes, led by Jay-Jay Okocha, Nwankwo Kanu, Alex Song, and Mark Fish, among others.
Speaking at a news conference on Friday in Abuja ahead of the event, Barca legend, captain Gaizka Mendieta, said his team is excited to play in front of Nigerian fans once again.
“We are looking forward to a fantastic game. It’s always special to be back on the pitch, especially playing in front of passionate Nigerian fans,” he said.
On the other side, former Super Eagles goalkeeper Dele Aiyenugba, representing the African Legends, assured supporters that the team is ready for an entertaining encounter.
“We are here to have fun and give the fans something to remember. It’s going to be a great day of football and camaraderie,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the ATOM Foundation, Dr. Zainab Mohammed said this year’s edition is dedicated to promoting menstrual health education through its initiative, “Keep Her Learning.”
She said the project aims to empower schoolgirls across Nigeria by tackling the challenges surrounding menstrual health and hygiene.
“Our goal is to reach 20,000 schoolgirls between the ages of 10 and 18, providing them with disposable sanitary products, education, and support,” she said.
According to her, many girls in rural communities miss school during their menstrual cycles due to a lack of access to sanitary products, clean water, proper facilities, and a challenge the initiative seeks to address.
“Our mission is to ensure that no girl misses school or feels ashamed because of her menstruation. With your support, we can make a difference.
“ The Foundation, the Keep Her Learning initiative, will identify 50 public schools in underserved communities, distribute sanitary kits, and train teachers.
She said that the charity match is being organised by the ATOM Foundation, in partnership with ZMB Homes and WGI.
“ This initiative aims to channel the excitement of football towards a noble cause and empowering the girl child through education and health awareness.
“ Saturday’s battle of the legends promises to be more than a sporting event. It will be a celebration of sport, unity, and purpose, with proceeds directed towards supporting menstrual hygiene education and keeping girls in school.
“This is not just about football; it’s about impact. We want to use the power of sport to uplift and empower the girl child,” she said.
