On March 18, 2025, the Beckenbauer Cup in Munich turned into a grand reunion of football legends, celebrating the legacy of Franz Beckenbauer and bringing together some of the greatest players in football history.
The event, held in the SAP-Garden, a state-of-the-art facility worth 320 million euros, featured an electrifying atmosphere as FC Bayern Munich faced off against Real Madrid in the final. Bayern Munich dominated the match with a decisive 4-0 victory, much to the delight of the enthusiastic crowd.
Among the standout players was Arjen Robben, who, despite announcing his retirement from professional football in 2021, proved his enduring skill and fitness by being named the Player of the Tournament. Robben, now 41, was pivotal in Bayern's success, having provided the assist for Franck Ribéry's opener in the first game against Ajax. His performance was particularly commendable as he sustained injuries during the tournament, suffering bloodied knees, yet he remained energetic and committed to the sport.
"The half goes to Franck," Robben humbly remarked after being crowned Player of the Tournament, showcasing his characteristic team spirit. This tournament was especially meaningful for Robben as it was a chance to reconnect with his long-time teammate, Franck Ribéry, with whom he shared many memorable moments at Bayern.
Renowned for his on-field partnership with Robben, Ribéry, also 41, now serves as the Co-Trainer at US Salernitana in Italy. Ribéry expressed his joy at reuniting with Robben, emphasizing the special bond they formed during their time together at Bayern. "What we experienced together on the pitch and in the locker room is almost indescribable. This was beautiful, and I will never forget it," Ribéry shared, reflecting on their shared history.
While the reunion of these two icons was a highlight of the event, other legends also made their mark. Juventus coach Vincent Kompany, who embodies the ambition of a player turned successful manager, commented on how Bayern's current team demonstrates a strong community spirit under the new coaching direction compared to previous years.
In addition to the memorable matches, the Beckenbauer Cup also featured lighter moments. Former Bayern stars, including Lothar Matthäus, who played a half before leaving for a pre-planned vacation, and Giovane Elber, who fulfilled his dream of playing alongside Robben and Ribéry, added to the tournament’s charm. Elber notably scored two goals in the final, alongside contributions from Rafinha and Mark van Bommel.
Throughout the day, the excitement resonated beyond the football pitch. Heidi Beckenbauer, the widow of Franz Beckenbauer, attended the event, singing the iconic Kaiser song alongside her son Joel, creating a heartfelt moment that captured the spirit of the tournament.
Moreover, the tournament was conducted not merely for entertainment; it also served a charitable purpose. A total of 75,000 euros was raised for the Franz Beckenbauer Foundation, showcasing the legends' commitment to giving back to the community.
The event also highlighted the camaraderie among players, as Franck Ribéry took the initiative to convince the referee to allow Real Madrid to continue playing with five players after their goalkeeper was sent off in the final, emphasizing the tournament's friendly nature. Ribéry explained, "We are here for a friendly match. Real Madrid came specially; we should continue with all players on the field." This gesture underscored the spirit of sportsmanship that prevailed during the tournament.
As the day concluded, the atmosphere was filled with nostalgia, laughter, and valuable memories created on and off the pitch. With players like Robben and Ribéry still showing remarkable skills, the Beckenbauer Cup not only celebrated a footballing legend but also the enduring bonds formed within the world of football.
As Bayern Munich looks forward to their upcoming Champions League matches, including a highly anticipated quarter-final clash against Inter Milan, the team's past greatness resonates in the present, evoking memories of shared triumphs, rivalries, and a commitment to excellence.
Reflecting on his time at the club, Robben reiterated his belief that Bayern remains strong contenders in both domestic and international competitions: "I see no other champions but Bayern," he asserted confidently.
The Beckenbauer Cup showcased a beautiful blend of competition, remembrance, and future promise for FC Bayern Munich as they strive to build on their storied legacy.
