A footballer's dream

Of course a footballer’s dream is to play professionally, but if you can’t make it big, you may as well hang out with someone who has…

Everything started a few years ago when I showed up at a women’s football tournament here in Dubai and I heard that Diego Maradona, the famous Argentinean football player, was in attendance. Everyone was so excited, sneaking around trying to meet him and to snap a picture. I on the other hand was quite calm and thought that if it was meant to be, one day, I would meet him and get a picture without having to “mob” him like everyone else.

It wasn’t too long after, that I was introduced to Maradona’s girlfriend, who to my surprise joined my football squad. Then, one night after a game, I was finally photographed with the well-known footballer. Patience indeed paid off as not only did I get a picture with him, I now got to see him quite often at our games and training sessions. Furthermore, I got to speak with him several times, I got to hear him holler my name from the sidelines and even give me a few tips from time to time. It’s a good thing I know a little bit of Spanish!

Now, after all that, what more could possibly happen?

Well, last night, “more” happened! The evening began with my team facing Diego Maradona and some of his buddies out on the pitch. When I heard some young boys chanting his name at kick-off, I was reminded of how much of a legend this guy actually is. Now, in the end, they kicked our butts I must admit, but at least I can walk away saying that I scored a goal against his team! ;) I’m telling you, I sat there on the sidelines from time to time in awe of the whole experience.

Following the “friendly” match, we headed home to shower and to prepare for a night out. Yes, that’s right, a night out at a bar with Diego Maradona. We received VIP treatment like I have never experienced before. A roped off area, drinks, food and the biggest bottle of Champagne I have ever seen in my life. There were fans around trying to get in, to snap some pictures and to get autographs. We on the other hand drank, ate, talked, laughed, sang, danced…we really had an unforgettable evening.

And now, as I lay here in bed this morning looking back at the series of events, I can’t help but think about how fortunate I am. What I have experienced is truly a footballer’s dream.

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