Ronaldinho and Brazilian legends to face Zanzibar counterparts on July 27 at New Amaan Complex

Zanzibar’s team of legends will include Abdallah Juma Alley, also known as Abdulwakati Juma, along with Murtala Ahmad Kibamba, Bakari Masoud, Nassoro Mwinyi Bwanga, and others.

Abdulrahim said that all the Brazilian legends will arrive in Zanzibar and, on July 26, will hold a training session with young talented footballers.

The match will be broadcast live globally and is expected to reach an audience of over two billion viewers worldwide.

He described the match as a landmark sporting event, with the aim of elevating Zanzibar’s international profile — particularly in Brazil — while promoting both tourism and sports. 

He also noted that the match will help boost football development in Zanzibar. Zanzibar’s President, Dr Hussein Mwinyi, is expected to be the guest of honour.

Abdulrahim added that Ronaldinho, who has more than 70 million followers on social media, will help "open up" Zanzibar to the world.

“This is also part of promoting investment in Zanzibar and creating momentum in that area. It will help nurture local football talent, as Zanzibar is rich in skilled players. The week leading up to the match will be celebrated as the ‘Week of Zanzibar’,” said Abdulrahim.

For his part, Zanzibar’s Minister of Tourism and Heritage, Mudrik Ramadhan Soraga, said the event will enhance Zanzibar’s visibility in the global tourism market, especially since a number of Brazilian investors are expected to attend.

Soraga added that the government will fully support the organizers and ensure the event is a major success.

“The match preparations will serve as a benchmark for Zanzibar’s ability to host major international competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in 2027 and other tournaments. Zanzibar is ready to host the Match of the Legends,” said Soraga.

Meanwhile, Young Africans (Yanga) President Hersi Said stated that the club’s participation in the event is aimed at adding value and recognizing Yanga’s long-standing contribution to the growth of football in Zanzibar.

“This is a historic moment for both Zanzibar and Tanzania as a whole. The legends will be setting foot in Zanzibar for the very first time. Ronaldinho is an iconic player, and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar is bringing him here for the first time. We expect an electrifying match that will generate tremendous excitement,” said Hersi.

He explained that the event goes beyond football — it offers investment opportunities and will include various entertainment segments such as Samba performances after the match.

“Yanga will use this platform to build relationships with clubs from Brazil and bring in players to participate in the event,” he added.