It was a powerful and memorable image: on the pitch of Osaka’s Panasonic Stadium, H.S.H. Prince Albert II gave the ceremonial kickoff of a football match, alongside Takumi Minamino, Japanese player for AS Monaco and ambassador of this exceptional event titled “United Through Legends.” A symbolic gesture to launch this unprecedented match between the Barbagiuans of Monaco and a team of former Japanese international football legends.
Organized as part of Monaco’s National Day at Expo 2025 Osaka, the charity match marked a turning point in the history of the Barbagiuans. For the first time since Louis Ducruet took over the presidency of the club, the team was heading abroad. And not just anywhere — to Japan, a country close to the heart of Louis Ducruet, who also serves as honorary commissioner of the Monaco Pavilion. He emphasized “the long-standing friendship between the Principality and Japan.”
The matchday lineup was impressive: Marcel Desailly, Robert Pires, Patrice Evra, Ludovic Giuly, Gaël Givet… Facing them, a squad of former Japanese internationals determined to play with purpose. And the game lived up to all expectations — full of pace, intensity, skill, and real commitment on both sides.
Japan struck first and led for much of the match. At halftime, they were ahead 3–2, despite goals from Robert Pires and Patrice Evra from the penalty spot.
But the Barbagiuans didn’t back down. In the second half, they pushed hard. Gaël Givet — one of the iconic players from Monaco’s 2004 Champions League campaign — leveled the score late in the game after a defensive error. And in the dying minutes, Serge Gakpé secured the 4–3 win for the Barbagiuans, under the watchful and enthusiastic gaze of the Sovereign Prince and H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie.
As always with the Barbagiuans and under the guidance of Louis Ducruet, the event carried a deeper message — one of solidarity and generosity. These are the founding values of the club, established more than 40 years ago by H.S.H. Prince Albert II.
The Japanese audience, present in large numbers and full of warmth, embraced the moment. The atmosphere was festive and respectful, echoing the spirit of the match. Proceeds from the event will be donated to Fight Aids Monaco and several local organizations providing aid to victims of the devastating earthquake that struck the city of Noto, Japan.
Around the pitch, the Princely Family and the official Monegasque delegation were present in full to support the event. Their presence gave even greater meaning to this special occasion. The success of the match was also made possible thanks to the involvement of Ludovic Giuly and his company, Goatsiders, a key partner in organizing the event on the ground.
A match, a first, and a symbol. In Osaka, the Barbagiuans demonstrated that their mission goes far beyond the borders of the Principality, embracing new cultures and new horizons.
A successful first step on the international stage — with many more to come…
Louis Ducruet: “I’ve been a big fan of Japan since I was a child. I developed a deep admiration for the country, its culture, and its identity. With the Barbagiuans, I wanted us to take action abroad. Osaka became our first experience — the connection was clear. It was a major challenge, far from our usual surroundings, but one that we rose to with success.”
Marcel Desailly: “It’s always a pleasure to be part of events like this, combining sport and charity. I was proud to wear the Barbagiuans jersey for the occasion. We came a long way, there was a great crowd in the stadium, good energy… I’m very pleased.”
Robert Pires: “Even though I never played for Monaco, when Ludo Giuly and President Louis Ducruet invited me, I didn’t hesitate. It’s a real pleasure to be here, and what matters most is the cause we’re supporting. That’s why we’re all here — and it’s always great to reunite.”
Ludovic Giuly: “This was a beautiful event, and I’m happy to have taken part. Seeing the Sovereign pleased, along with the Princely Family present on this occasion, makes me all the more proud to have contributed to the success of this project.”
