A special charity football match featuring legends from Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Everton will be broadcast live on free-to-air television. The event, dubbed Game4Hope, aims to raise significant funds for two vital charities: Everton in the Community and Shelter, both dedicated to tackling homelessness. The high-profile fixture is scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 26, with the opening whistle set for 4:45 PM.
Star-Studded Lineup and Management
The Merseyside team, a formidable collection of former stars from Everton and Liverpool, will be jointly managed by two iconic figures: Peter Reid, a legendary Everton midfielder, and John Barnes, a celebrated Liverpool winger. This unique gathering will see fierce club rivals put their differences aside for a greater cause.
The opposing side will be a ‘Rest of the World XI’, captained by the esteemed Brazilian World Cup winner, Rivaldo. He will be joined by fellow Brazilian football icon Cafu, former Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Manchester United defensive stalwart Jaap Stam, and the masterful Dutch midfielder Clarence Seedorf. This assembly of global talent promises an exciting spectacle for fans.
Merseyside Icons and Toffees’ Return
Goodison Park, the home of Everton, will host the Game4Hope. The Merseyside squad boasts a wealth of familiar faces who have graced the pitches of both Everton and Liverpool. From Everton, the lineup includes club stalwarts such as Leighton Baines, Gareth Barry, Phil Jagielka, Yakubu, Joleon Lescott, and Louis Saha. These players are set to make a welcome return to their former stomping ground.
Joining them will be a contingent of Liverpool legends, including Robbie Fowler, David James, Ryan Babel, Jari Litmanen, and John Aldridge. The prospect of these beloved players, alongside their Everton counterparts, competing together is a major draw for supporters.
Broadcast Details and Charitable Impact
For those unable to attend the match in person, all the action will be broadcast live on Channel 5, ensuring widespread accessibility. A live stream will also be available through the broadcaster’s digital platforms, including their website and app. Coverage is set to commence at 4:00 PM, with Katie Shanahan and Ade Oladipo leading the broadcast team.
A statement from Paramount highlighted the significance of the event: “Viewers can witness Everton and Liverpool legends put their famous rivalry aside to come together for a cause that matters, with proceeds supporting Everton in the Community and Shelter and their work tackling homelessness across Merseyside and beyond.” This underscores the dual purpose of the event: providing thrilling football entertainment while making a tangible difference in the fight against homelessness.
Event Logistics and Additional Entertainment
Raphael Pendergast, Channel 5’s director of sport, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership: “We’re delighted to work with LGNDS and Everton FC to bring this brilliant event to 5. With a stellar lineup of football legends on the pitch, it’s an unmissable event for a fantastic cause.”
Adding to the star power, Everton icon Tim Cahill will captain the Merseyside team, setting up a compelling head-to-head with Rivaldo. The event will also feature appearances from various celebrities, including boxer Tony Bellew, rapper Big Zuu, MMA fighter Molly McCann, and comedian John Bishop, among others. The half-time interval
