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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Liam Bryce

Luis Figo thanks Rangers as grateful Real Madrid legend blown away by 'incredible atmosphere'

Luis Figo admits he was thrilled to sample the Ibrox atmosphere on an "amazing afternoon" celebrating Rangers ' 150th anniversary.

The Real Madrid and Portugal hero captained a World XI to victory over a team of Rangers legends on a memorable day in Glasgow on Saturday.

Carlos Marchena, Nuno Gomes and Ricardo Quaresma scored for Figo's side while Shota Arveladze headed home and Paul Gascoigne netted a cameo goal in the final moments.

Over 38,000 fans turned out for the occasion and the 49-year-old was thrilled by the attendance as he admitted it's not often legends fixtures attract such interest.

"Great, it was an amazing afternoon. It's been very nice to be here," Figo told Rangers TV. "The atmosphere was incredible and, for us, it was a magic opportunity to come and celebrate the anniversary of Glasgow.

Luis Figo celebrates with Ricardo Quaresma (PA)

"I'm very pleased I had the chance to play in this atmosphere because in a legends game it's very difficult to find this kind of atmosphere and the stadium full."

The match also helped raise funds for the Luis Figo Foundation, the Portuguese icon's charity which supports social projects across the globe.

And the former Sporting, Barcelona and Inter star was keen to stress how thankful he was for the chance.

Figo added: "Yeah, great opportunity, very thankful for the opportunity to raise funds for our projects.

"These days, it's very difficult, not only for my foundation but in general, to get some funds because everyone knows what is happening in the world.

"We will try to (inaudible) the funds to the different areas we work, like health, sports and social integration.

"It's very nice to have that chance."

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