Former FCB heroes Paul Breitner, Markus Babbel, Giovane Elber and Paulo Sergio played in all the world's great stadiums, from the Bernabeu via Old Trafford and Camp Nou to the San Siro. But on Wednesday evening, the group of hugely successful ex-players performed on one of the most intriguing and unusual fields of them all: a pitch adjacent to Pier 2 in Brooklyn Bridge Park, on the banks of the East River and with a glorious view of the famous Manhattan Skyline. The quartet took to the field on Wednesday evening for the Game of Legends forming part of the Audi Summer Tour USA 2014.
FCB shareholder Audi even laid down a artificial turf pitch for the contest between “Team White" spearheaded by Breitner and Babbel, and “Team Red" featuring Elber and Sergio. The teams of nine plus a goalkeeper played two 25 minute halves packed with tricks, flicks and moments of great skill, much to the delight of the approximately 250 spectators, including the local FC Bayern fan club.
“It's unique,” Elber told fcbayern.de as he surveyed the remarkable setting. “I accepted the invitation the moment it arrived. You have to come to New York no matter what it takes. And it's fantastic to play a bit of football with Paul Breitner, Markus Babbel and Paulo Sergio. It was great fun,” continued the former striker, who has clearly not lost his nose for goal and scored a hatful on the evening.
At the end of an entertaining 50 minute contest the score was tied at ten goals each, so the winner was determined on penalties. “Team White" ultimately took the honours on an enjoyable and memorable evening.
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