Iran`s Mahdavikia features in Michael Ballack farewell match

TEHRAN,June 8(MNA)--Former Persepolis and Iran midfielder Mehdi Mahdavikia featured in Michael Ballack’s farewell match on Wednesday. In the match held at the Red Bull Arena in Leipzig, Germany, the World Select team, coached by Jose Mourinho, beat ‘Friends of Michael Ballack’ 4-3 in front of more than 45, 000 fans. Mahdavikia was a member of the World Select team. Mahdavikia bade farewell in early May after Persepolis lost to Sepahan in penalty shootout. The 36-year-old player made 111 appearances for Iran football team and scored 13 goals. Michael Ballack, known for his leadership on and off the pitch, spoke emotionally to his fans, “You are the ones that make football a great game and I am forever grateful for having had the amazing privilege of sharing my career and love of the game with you." Ballack, 36, who retired last October, made the last of his 98 appearances for Germany in February 2010. He captained his country to third at the 2006 World Cup Germany and spent four years at Chelsea from 2006 until 2010.