In 2008, legendary German goalkeeper Oliver Kahn played his last match in India

It is not every day one gets to see one of the best clubs in the world play in India. However, in March 2008, 1,20,000 football fans of Kolkata were able to see the mighty team of Bayern Munich at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan stadium. After all, legendary German goalkeeper Oliver Kahn was playing his last career match. Kahn could’ve chosen any other day to retire, but it was a special occasion because the city of Kolkata in India is known for their love for football.

It was a simple exhibition match that turned special because everybody wanted to give Kahn a fitting farewell. However, the match turned slightly bitter when the two sides got into an ugly fight. Indeed, the sight on the pitch was unpleasant, but it sure made the day better because it showed that Indian club Mohun Bagan meant business even though they were nowhere near Bayern’s class.

For Oliver Kahn, the job that day was not hectic as the man did not have to worry much about Mohun Bagan’s attacking line-up. Hardly any shot reached the nets of Bayern and therefore, Kahn mostly stayed idle between the nets. However, all the eyes in the world and the camera lenses in the stadium were on Kahn that day.

On the other hand, Bayern Munich’s attackers were playing with the defence of Mohun Bagan. The first goal was scored in the 19^th-minute by Jan Schlaudraff whereas a superb free kick was scored by Brazil’s World Cup-winning player Ze Roberto in the 37^th-minute. The third and final goal of the game was also scored by Jan Schlaudraff. To be honest, if Bayern Munich wanted, they could’ve chalked up a few more. However, after the match, the young players of Mohun Bagan received appreciation because they valiantly faced the mighty Munich.

For Kahn, the match was over in the 55th-minute as the iconic player left the pitch, handing over his legendary gloves to youngster goalie Michael Rensing. On his way back to the sidelines, Oliver Kahn received a standing ovation from the 1,20,000 fans. After the match, an emotional Kahn said, “It is a very special moment for me. Thank you for this great night.”

Not to forget, the Indian Football Association felicitated Kahn with 8,640 diamonds studded on a gold-plated ball. Last but not least, Mohun Bagan gifted Kahn the club’s lifetime membership card along with a silver boat and the club’s mascot.