Bremen marked a century of the Weserstadion with one of its familiar figures back on the pitch, as former Werder Bremen midfielder Diego helped the home legends defeat Real Madrid Legends 4-3 on Saturday.
Retired since ending his playing career at Flamengo in December 2022, the Brazilian returned to a stadium where his technical gifts and attacking output made him a lasting favourite. He supplied an assist and scored in the anniversary match.
Quick facts
- Werder Bremen celebrated 100 years of the Weserstadion.
- Werder Bremen Legends beat Real Madrid Legends 4-3.
- Diego created Markus Rosenberg’s goal from a corner and scored Werder’s fourth.
- Diego made 132 competitive appearances for Werder, scoring 53 goals.
- He won the DFB-Pokal and German League Cup during his spell in Bremen.
Diego’s delivery from a corner found Rosenberg for Werder’s second goal. Later, he completed the German side’s scoring with a well-placed strike into the right corner of the net.
Ailton, Per Mertesacker, Rosenberg and Angelos Charisteas lined up alongside Diego for the hosts. Real Madrid’s former players included Christian Karembeu, Esteban Cambiasso, Claude Makélélé and Pepe.
The occasion underlined Diego’s continuing connection with northern Germany. His Werder record of 53 goals in 132 official matches came alongside two domestic trophies, and the crowd’s response carried the warmth of a reunion rather than a routine exhibition.
After the game, Diego praised the organisation of the celebration and the affection shown by Werder supporters. He said the club’s welcome made him feel that every sacrifice made in its shirt would have been worth repeating many times over.
He described the evening as another special one in Bremen and said he intends to return regularly, adding that the reception he receives there is remarkable for his heart, mind and wellbeing.
