On December 14, 2024, Tomoaki Makino will take center stage at his farewell match titled 'Makino Tomoaki Grand Thanksgiving Festival' at Noevir Stadium Kobe, marking the end of his professional football career. This special event promises to be filled with nostalgia and excitement as it features the match between 'MAKINO JAPAN' and 'KOBE STARS'. With the kick-off scheduled for 16:00, fans are eagerly anticipating what this event will hold.
The match will not only celebrate Makino’s achievements but will also see various football legends participating. Among them, former German national team player Lukas Podolski will grace the pitch as part of the KOBE STARS team. Makino reflected on his past encounters with Podolski, reminiscing about the kindness he experienced when arriving in Germany for the first time, saying, ‘He handed me the microphone at Cologne’s carnival, allowing me to speak on stage, which helped me connect with the fans.’ This touch of sentiment highlights the camaraderie shared among players, showcasing how football transcends mere competition.
Fans can look forward to seeing many celebrated names on the pitch. The teams will feature notable players, with MAKINO JAPAN being coached by none other than Keisuke Honda, who has expressed his commitment to creating a memorable experience. 'I offered him the position as he asked to coach, and I am excited to see his strategic play on the bench,' Makino commented, hinting at the dynamic presence Honda is sure to bring.
The structure of the teams is impressive, with MAKINO JAPAN including stars like Shinji Kagawa and Takashi Usami, alongside Makino himself. Meanwhile, KOBE STARS boasts talents such as Daiki Iikura and the ever-charismatic Lukas Podolski. The thrilling line-up ensures the match will be both competitive and entertaining.
This farewell match has generated significant buzz, especially with the promise of surprises throughout the event. Makino teased fans by saying, ‘From start to finish, it will be surprise after surprise, so enjoy every moment. You never know what might happen!’ Such statements only add to the excitement, making it clear this isn’t just another game; it’s set to be a festive conclusion to his footballing chapter.
The match is particularly meaningful for Makino, who announced his retirement from professional football at the end of the 2022 season. Since then, he has engaged with his community as a Vissel Kobe Evangelist, inspiring up-and-coming football players and fans alike with his dedication and passion for sports.
Broadcasting this historic event will be ABEMA, who will provide live coverage starting from 15:30 on December 14. This accessibility means fans can join from the comfort of their homes or wherever they might be. Makino’s farewell match aims to capture the hearts of viewers, not just as an athletic spectacle but as a heartfelt tribute to his career.
Adding to the festivities around the match, Noevir Stadium Kobe will also host the 'Noevir Light Up 2024' event starting December 14, coinciding perfectly with Makino's farewell celebration. The stadium will be adorned with beautiful lights to create a festive atmosphere, infusing the spirit of the season with football.
Even beyond the sport itself, Makino's farewell serves as a reminder of the connections forged on and off the field. With his exit, the football community reflects on his contributions over the years, focusing on the memories and moments he has gifted fans and teammates alike. Such ceremonies are rarely just ends; they become beginnings for newer stories inspired by the legacies of players like Makino.
Tomoaki Makino has promised to give it his all one last time, and as the clock counts down to December 14, excitement and anticipation only grow. It's shaping up to be more than just his last match, but rather, a celebration of friendship, respect, and the sport he loves dearly.
This event is poised to be unforgettable, highlighting the culmination of a remarkable career, and showing fans just how integral Makino has been to both Vissel Kobe and Japanese football as a whole. Be sure to mark your calendars for what promises to be one of the most touching farewell matches the sport has seen.
