Borussia Dortmund Legends fight back for Anfield draw in charity friendly
Borussia Dortmund's legendary former strikers Mohamed Zidan and Jan Koller scored to secure a 2-2 draw against a Liverpool legends side in a charity friendly at Anfield. The match, played during the international break, saw the home side take an early two-goal lead before the visiting icons staged a second-half comeback.
Thiago Alcântara and Jay Spearing had put the Liverpool legends in command, but the introduction of the former Dortmund pair changed the game. Mohamed Zidan, now 42, halved the deficit with a composed finish, showcasing the technical ability that made him a fan favourite during two spells with the Bundesliga club between 2008 and 2012. The Egyptian forward, who also played for Werder Bremen and Mainz, scored 13 goals in 66 appearances for Dortmund.
The equaliser came from the towering figure of Jan Koller, the Czech Republic's all-time top scorer. Now 51, Koller rose to meet a cross and powered a header into the net, a familiar sight for Dortmund supporters who watched him score 59 goals in 138 league games from 2001 to 2006. His physical presence and aerial threat remain undiminished, according to reports from spectators at the event.
The friendly was organised to raise funds for the LFC Foundation and other community charities, continuing a tradition of such events during breaks in the professional calendar. A strong crowd at Anfield witnessed a host of other former stars from both clubs participate, with the competitive spirit evident despite the fixture's charitable nature.
For Dortmund, the match served as a nostalgic reminder of a potent strike partnership from a different era, though from distinct periods at the club. Zidan's agility and Koller's sheer power were hallmarks of their respective playing styles. Their goals ensured a share of the spoils on Merseyside, providing a fittingly entertaining conclusion for fans of both historic clubs. The result underscores the lasting quality and enduring appeal of the players involved, long after their retirement from the professional game.
