FC Barcelona beat Ajax legends in high-scoring tribute match for Johan Cruyff

A friendly match took place at Johan Cruyff Arena on Sunday, featuring legends from Ajax and FC Barcelona, in a festive atmosphere that evoked memories of the stars from both clubs. The proceeds were dedicated to supporting the Johan Cruyff Foundation, and the match ended with the Catalan team winning by four goals.

The match saw a large attendance of former Ajax stars, including Edwin van der Sar, Frank and Ronald de Boer, and Patrick Kluivert, alongside Jari Litmanen, Wesley Sneijder, Rafael van der Vaart, and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar. Meanwhile, FC Barcelona's list featured prominent names such as Éric Abidal, Javier Saviola, and Sergi Barjuan.

Play was halted in the 14th minute to honor the late legend Johan Cruyff, whose name is associated with both clubs, amid applause from the attending fans and with the participation of his family members who watched the tribute from the stands.

Despite the celebratory nature of the match, it was not without some physical troubles, as Sergi Barjuan had to leave the pitch injured in the 26th minute, and Barcelona goalkeeper Rod Hespen was unable to continue after the break, with Jesus Angoy taking his place.

The match featured standout moments, including a stunning goal from Manuel Nolito over goalkeeper Van der Sar, who received the shot with admiration. After being substituted, he jokingly commented: "I said at half-time that I felt I had a good game, but now I've conceded five goals. I wasn't used to that in the past, and I don't think I'll sleep well tonight."

The first half ended with FC Barcelona leading 5-4, before the Catalan team added two more goals in the second half, taking advantage of their physical superiority and the presence of a larger number of players who have recently retired or are still playing football regularly.

Patryck Kluivert scored a stunning goal for Ajax, while Klaas-Jan Huntelaar netted twice, the first after a pass from Ryan Babel and the second following a pass from Rafael van der Vaart. Sim de Jong also added another goal.

FC Barcelona's goals were scored by Javier Saviola and Manuel Nolito, each netting two, alongside Alex Vidal, Roger Garcia, and Christian Tello, as the Spanish side clinched the match with a 7-4 scoreline, before the players concluded the evening with a joint tribute round in front of the fans.