The association's president, Gabriel Tirado, has stressed the importance of public support because he wants the event to "be a great family celebration" and hopes to "fill the stadium with hope and show that Zaragoza is a compassionate city." He also noted that all 20,000 tickets sold out last year, but urged everyone who gets a ticket to attend the match "because the atmosphere is what matters most at these kinds of events."
One of the main figures at the event is Real Zaragoza legend and former captain Xavi Aguado. The defender has been a leading supporter of the association's cause since retiring from professional football: "I loved the project. In the end, I know what it is like to go through this, and you realize how harsh reality can be. I have always been committed to supporting them, both in this way and through my camp." For him, "this day is special and I have it marked on my calendar," and he plans to play a few minutes and try not to let the team down, with the goal of making it "to the opening of the New Romareda."
Mayor Natalia Chueca has urged Zaragoza residents to attend in order to "keep scoring goals against cancer," referring to Aspanoa's slogan, and said she has complete confidence that the people of Zaragoza will respond with solidarity "because it is a special day."
THE MATCH AND ENTERTAINMENT
Real Zaragoza's veterans will be coached by legendary player Juan Señor, and their captain will not be Xavi Aguado for a very special and moving reason. Diego, an Aspanoa child, will wear the four-striped armband as a representative of all children affected by cancer. The squad includes former players such as Lafita, Linares, Pablo Alfaro and Javier Paredes, among others. Meanwhile, Málaga's veterans will come to Ibercaja Estadio with renowned former players including Julio Baptista, Catanha, Valcarce and former Zaragoza player Apoño.
Entertainment for younger fans is also guaranteed, as they will be able to meet their favorite superheroes before kickoff and take photos with mascots such as Zarpa. In addition, a parachute patrol from the Air Deployment Support Squadron will stage a demonstration on the pitch during halftime.
TICKETS AND STADIUM SERVICES
Tickets are available on Aspanoa's website and at the association's physical headquarters at 159 Duquesa Villahermosa. They cost 4 euros, and organizers have urged people who cannot attend the stadium to help through the Fila Cero donation option so the stands at the modular stadium can be filled.
Attendees will be able to use Ibercaja Estadio's two parking lots free of charge, while Zaragoza City Council will increase tram services and provide the EM3 bus route. In addition, attendees will be able to enjoy drinks and snacks at the sports complex's bars for 1.50 euros.
The association has highlighted the importance of the proceeds from this match in supporting its work, having invested 420,000 euros in ten different research projects. This year, it has launched two initiatives: collaboration with Aragón's new Pediatric ICU at Miguel Servet Hospital, and the opening of La Cabaña, a day center for children with cancer, which will be located at Porches del Audiorama. "We are experiencing a historic moment that will mark a before and an after. Now we need everyone's help," Tirado concluded.
