13 Jul 2007

New Caledonian football star to play in Mandela's birthday match

10:01 am on 13 July 2007

The New Caledonian football superstar Christian Karembeu will lineup with some of the the world's best footballers in a charity match in honour of former South African President Nelson Mandela's birthday.

Karembeu who played for France and Real Madrid joins Ruud Gullit and the world's greatest player, 66-year old Pele, who will make a cameo appearance.

Three-time African Player of the Year Samuel Eto'o and former FIFA World Player of the Year George Weah are among the 22 players selected to represent Africa, whose squad, like the Rest of the World's is mainly comprised of former stars.

The game is due to be held at Cape Town's Newlands Stadium on July 18th, Mandela's 89th birthday, with proceeds going to local charities.