The former Real Madrid and France football star Christian Karembeu hopes that tonight's All Star match in Noumea will help to inspire the next generation of New Caledonian's to take up the sport.
Former France and Real Madrid Christian Karembeu takes a selfie with some ex teammates in New Caledonia. Photo: Facebook
A number of European greats, including former Juventus striker David Trezeguet and Real Madrid midfielder Claude Makelele, will roll back the years at the Stade Numa Daly, to help mark the 50th anniversary of the Gaitcha football club.
Christian Karembeu says the idea for the match was initially thought up with the former President of Gaitcha, Dr Paul Qaeze, who died in October.
He says playing for Gaitcha growing up and says the game is a chance to celebrate the club and spread a positive message.
"Sport is tool of dedication and peace and we have Real Madrid players, we have Juventus players, we have Paris St Germain players, many many of La Liga [in Spain]. Football can unite the people and sport can change the world together so I think our country deserves that better. Hopefully I inspire new generations to be good at football but first of all to be good human beings because we need this kind of brilliance in our world today."
Christian Karembeu previously hosted a similar star-studded match in New Caledonia in 2008 and says he hopes to make it a regular event.
