Hazard, Henry, and Costa Shine in Thrilling Charity Match

Eden Hazard and football legends Thierry Henry and Diego Costa delivered a masterclass in nostalgia and skill as the Match for Hope charity game in Doha erupted in goals, drama, and laughter. At the heart of this celebration of the sport, experience proved its worth as former stars rolled back the years for a great cause.

Eden Hazard and Legends Light Up Match for Hope

The annual Match for Hope, held at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Qatar, brought together a spectacular lineup of international icons, retired professionals, and digital personalities. Notably, Diego Costa, at 37 and without a club since 2024, lit up the pitch by scoring a stunning 25-yard goal reminiscent of his Premier League prime. His fiery spirit and clinical finish reminded fans of his glory days, as he partnered with Eden Hazard on Team Chunkz under the guidance of Arsène Wenger.

Hazard, also a Chelsea legend, operated with trademark flair from the left wing, rekindling memories of his partnership with Costa from their time at Stamford Bridge. The team featured greats like Real Madrid’s Marcelo and was bolstered by online stars such as I’m A Celebrity winner AngryGinge.

Thierry Henry Leads Team Aboflah

On the opposition, Roberto Di Matteo managed Team Aboflah, captained by Arsenal legend Thierry Henry, flanked by names like Franck Ribery, Tim Cahill, and Gerard Pique. Henry, still boasting sharp movement and vision, was central to his team’s attacking efforts. His creativity shone through when he set up Cahill for a crucial goal that narrowed the gap in a match full of end-to-end action.

Match Descends Into Chaos—and Comedy

The encounter was more than just competition; it was a theatrical showcase of football’s lighter side. Social media personality Bilal Fadili’s wrestling-style tackle on YouTuber KSI drew laughter from the crowd as the referee let play continue, culminating in Costa’s thunderous opener past David Vujanic.

The first half alone saw a flurry of goals. Team Chunkz surged ahead with contributions from YouTuber Mark Rober, Hazard, and Eman SV2. Ribery inspired a comeback, scoring and assisting to bring Team Aboflah level at 4-4, only for Chunkz to restore the lead before the break.

Hazard and Legends’ Experience Proves Decisive

The second half brought more fireworks. Costa found the net again, showing his age-defying aggression, while YouTube megastar MrBeast added to the spectacle by cheekily offering the goalkeeper a briefcase of cash before netting a penalty. The spirit of fun was evident throughout, but the competitive edge remained as Hazard and Marcelo brilliantly combined to extend Team Chunkz’s lead.

Despite Team Aboflah’s late push, including a rebound from Channel 4’s Harry Pinero, Team Chunkz held on for an 8-7 victory in a contest filled with laughs and nostalgia.

Match for Hope: Football’s Power to Give Back

Now in its third edition, the Match for Hope has raised over £15 million to support disadvantaged children across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. The event not only thrills fans with legendary skill and playful antics but also serves a greater purpose. Musical acts like The Chainsmokers and the Jonas Brothers provided entertainment, making the occasion a true festival of sport and charity.

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Opinion: Age Means Nothing for True Football Legends

Watching Eden Hazard, Thierry Henry, and Diego Costa command the field with such vigor is a reminder that passion and skill never truly fade. These icons not only entertained but inspired, proving that football’s magic transcends age. Their presence elevated the charity match, showing that the beautiful game is as much about giving back as it is about goals.