The much-anticipated Jogo das Estrelas, organized by the legendary Zico, marks its 20th edition this year, bringing together some of the most iconic names in football at the Maracanã Stadium on December 28. The event is not only significant for fans but also serves as a charitable gathering, celebrating the sport's rich history.
Flamengo players Fabrício Bruno and Wesley have been confirmed to participate, exciting many fans of the club who are eager to see their beloved athletes back on the field. The last official match for Flamengo took place on December 8, resulting in a 2-2 draw with Vitória, and many supporters are ready for this festive occasion.
Scheduled to kick off at 18:30 local time, the Jogo das Estrelas will commence festivities with several preliminary events. The stadium gates will open at 14:00, leading up to the initial game known as the Jogo dos Artistas at 16:00, showcasing various artists from the Brazilian entertainment industry. The opening show will occur at 18:00, building the excitement before the primary football match.
Tickets for the event can be purchased both online and at select physical locations, including the official Flamengo stores and the Maracanã box office. Prices vary by seating area, with options ranging from R$ 25 for half-price tickets to R$ 100 for premium seats.
Aside from the Flamengo duo of Fabrício Bruno and Wesley, the list of confirmed participants is extensive, featuring numerous football icons. Players like Adriano Imperador, Rivaldo, and David Luiz are among those expected to take part, along with several foreign stars, enhancing the event’s appeal across international borders.
This year's Jogo das Estrelas holds extra emotional weight as it will also serve to pay tribute to the late Adílio, Zico's close friend and fellow Flamengo legend who passed away earlier this year. Zico expressed heartfelt sentiments, saying, "Nosso querido Brown nos deixou esse ano, mas merece todas as homenagens por tudo que fez pelo Flamengo e pelo nosso futebol. Criamos uma amizade muito grande, desde moleques... Adílio sempre foi um cara espetacular," underscoring the deep loss felt within the football community.
The significance of the Jogo das Estrelas extends beyond mere entertainment; it draws attention to important charitable efforts and showcases the enduring bond within the football community. With the convergence of players, artists, fans, and the spirit of Zico's legacy, the event promises to be unforgettable.
Anticipation is building as the community gears up for this celebratory event, which acts as both a nostalgic reunion of football's finest and as a beacon for charity. Fans are not only eager to see their favorite stars but to also support the meaningful causes behind this beloved tradition.
The Maracanã is prepared to host what is expected to be one of the most memorable editions of the Jogo das Estrelas yet, reinforcing the culture of camaraderie and celebration of football deeply embedded within Brazilian society.
This special anniversary edition of Zico’s Jogo das Estrelas is set to weave together the threads of football history, paying homage to great players past and present, encapsulating the joyous spirit of the game.
