KARACHI: Football legends Luis Figo and Ricardo Kaka arrived in Karachi on Thursday to officially kick off World Soccer Stars 2019 in Pakistan.
The World Soccer Stars 2019 will see two Kaka and Figo-led sides play matches in Karachi and Lahore from April 26 and 29.
PHOTO: EXPRESS
Speaking at a ceremony, Portugal midfield maestro Figo said that Pakistan was very different from what appeared in the news.
“The people here have great passion for football. This is my first time in the country. Whenever I heard about Pakistan, it seemed like a distant place. My impression about Pakistan was mostly from the news. Pakistan is a very different country from what it is in the news. I see a country that loves football, cares for people and will take back a very good image of Pakistan,” Figo remarked.
PHOTO: EXPRESS
Talking about his one-day visit, Portuguese football maestro said his visit was all about promoting football in the country. He had received a great welcome in Pakistan and people here loved the sport.
Responding to a question about Pakistan having a sportsman as its prime minister, Figo said Imran Khan had been the most famous cricketer. “I wish he succeeds in governing the country like he succeeded in sports”, Figo added.
The soccer star said he had heard good things about Ronaldinho’s visit to Pakistan that happened in 2017.
Pakistan needed a combination of government support, federation, coaches, facilities and above all competition for the development of football in the country.
He said he was thankful to all his fans who came to see and welcome him in Karachi and Lahore.
