Ex-Boca star Juan Román Riquelme announces La Bombonera testimonial

A testimonial match for former Boca Juniors and Argentina star Juan Román Riquelme will be held in December, more than five years after the midfielder's retirement.

The game will be played at La Bombonera, the iconic home of his former club, on December 12, Riquelme told local television channel TyC Sports.

The fixture will pit members of Boca's 2000 Copa Libertadores-winning team against players from the 2007 Boca squad that won the same competition – the most prestigious prize in South American club football. Riquelme will play a half for each side.

"I am who I am thanks to this club," the 41-year-old said. "I have no doubt that it will be an unforgettable day."

Riquelme is considered one of the greatest players in Boca's history, having led the Buenos Aires side to five league titles over two spells and three Copa Libertadores trophies: in 2000, 2001 and 2007.

The attacking midfielder, who also represented Barcelona, Villarreal and Argentinos Juniors, made 51 appearances for Argentina, scoring 17 goals.

He played in only one World Cup in 2006 but captained the Albiceleste to gold at the Beijing 2008 Olympics.

– XINHUA