The footballer Maxi Rodriguez experienced perhaps one of the most special matches of his career, if not the most. It was his last and even Leo Messi himself was present.
Maximiliano Rodriguez, the 'Fiera', lived his farewell match of football in the Coloso Marcelo Bielsa Stadium in the city of Rosario. A match that had Lionel Messi as a special guest, who celebrated his 36th birthday in front of more than 41,000 spectators who filled the stands of a very special day.
The match pitted the glories of Newell's Old Boys against their counterparts of the Argentine national team and ended with a fireworks display with emotional words from the honoree in tears: "It is an unforgettable day for me, to live it with all my friends here and with all of you. It is unforgettable and thank you very much for this spectacular day in this party with my friends, my family and all the people.
Star guest Lionel Messi arrived in a car just minutes after the players' presentation and, when he took to the pitch, received an emotional ovation from the club where he started playing as a child before moving to Barcelona.
The match ended 7-5 in favour of the Argentine national team with goals from the honoured Maxi Rodriguez for both teams and a first half hat trick from Lionel Messi for the 'Albiceleste', as well as goals from Maxi's two daughters: Alma and Aitana, who came on in the second half.