Maracanã Hosts 'Partida do Coração' Charity Match Reuniting Brazilian and Italian Football Legends
The 'Partida do Coração' charity match at Maracanã brought together Brazilian and Italian football legends to promote social inclusion for vulnerable youth, attracting 20,000 attendees including 3,000 children from social projects.
- • The charity football match took place on October 10, 2025, at Maracanã stadium.
- • Brazilian legends Romário, Cafu, Zico, Bebeto, and Júlio César faced Italian icons Cannavaro, Baggio, and Materazzi.
- • The event aimed to promote social inclusion and access to sports for vulnerable children and adolescents.
- • Approximately 20,000 spectators attended, including 3,000 young people from social and educational projects.
- • Musical performances by Buchecha, Dilsinho, and MC Maneirinho followed the match.
Key details
On October 10, 2025, the iconic Maracanã stadium in Rio de Janeiro became the stage for the 'Partida do Coração', a charity football match featuring legendary players from Brazil and Italy. Scheduled to kick off at 17:00 local time, the event served a dual purpose: celebrating Children's Day on October 12 and promoting social inclusion by providing access to sports for vulnerable children and adolescents.
Approximately 20,000 spectators attended, including 3,000 young people from social and educational projects such as 'Craque do Amanhã' and the 'Escola de Lutas José Aldo.' Alongside watching football legends like Romário, Cafu, Zico, Bebeto, and goalkeeper Júlio César for Brazil, and Cannavaro, Roberto Baggio, and Materazzi for Italy, these youths engaged in experiences that highlighted sports' transformative potential.
The event was organized by Enel Rio in partnership with the Rio de Janeiro state government and supported through the Sports Incentive Law. Beyond the football match, entertainment included musical performances by artists Buchecha, Dilsinho, and MC Maneirinho, enriching the festive atmosphere.
Notably, tickets were not available for general public sale, emphasizing the event's charitable and community-driven focus. The reunion of these World Cup champions not only rekindled the historical football rivalry between Brazil and Italy but also spotlighted social causes using sport as a catalyst for inclusion and empowerment.
This initiative reflects ongoing efforts to harness Brazil’s rich football culture to benefit underprivileged communities and celebrate youth, aligning with national values on Children's Day.