Photo credit: Stéphane Danna, Monaco Government Communication Department.
OSAKA, Japan, June 27, 2025 — At Osaka’s Panasonic Stadium, H.S.H. Prince Albert II and AS Monaco’s Takumi Minamino kicked off a charity football match, “United Through Legends,” pitting Monaco’s Barbagiuans against former Japanese international players. This marked the first international outing for the Barbagiuans under Louis Ducruet’s presidency.
Held during Monaco’s National Day at Expo 2025 Osaka, the match highlighted the ties between Monaco and Japan, as noted by Ducruet, honorary commissioner of the Monaco Pavilion: “the long-standing friendship between the Principality and Japan.” The Barbagiuans, founded over 40 years ago by Prince Albert II, fielded players like Marcel Desailly, Robert Pires, Patrice Evra, Ludovic Giuly, and Gaël Givet, facing a determined Japanese squad.
Photo credit: Stéphane Danna, Monaco Government Communication Department.
The game was competitive. Japan led 3–2 at halftime, despite goals from Pires and Evra’s penalty. In the second half, Givet equalized after a Japanese error, and Serge Gakpé scored the winning goal for a 4–3 Barbagiuans victory, watched by Prince Albert II and H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie.
The event supported Fight Aids Monaco and local groups aiding Noto earthquake victims. The Japanese crowd was large and supportive, creating a positive atmosphere. The Princely Family and Monegasque delegation attended, with organizational support from Giuly’s company, Goatsiders.
Photo credit: Stéphane Danna, Monaco Government Communication Department.
Ducruet said: “I’ve been a big fan of Japan since I was a child. Osaka became our first experience — the connection was clear. It was a major challenge, but one that we rose to with success.” Desailly added: “It’s always a pleasure to be part of events like this, combining sport and charity. I was proud to wear the Barbagiuans jersey.” Pires noted: “Even though I never played for Monaco, when Ludo Giuly and President Louis Ducruet invited me, I didn’t hesitate. It’s the cause we’re supporting.” Giuly said: “This was a beautiful event, and I’m happy to have taken part. Seeing the Sovereign pleased makes me proud to have contributed.”
The match showed the Barbagiuans’ mission extends beyond Monaco, with plans for more international events.