Three Premier League Legends Join the Lineup

The Stilian Petrov Foundation has confirmed three additional high-profile additions for the upcoming "Match of Hope" charity fixture. Scheduled for June 6 at 5:00 PM on Lazers Stadium in Burgas, the event will feature former Premier League stars David Bentley, Giorgos Samaras, and Sebastien Bassong. Their participation significantly raises the profile of the match, which aims to raise funds for oncological care in Bulgaria.

Bentley, known for his technical precision and creative crossing, began his career at Arsenal before shining at Blackburn Rovers. He later moved to Tottenham Hotspur, where he remains remembered for a spectacular 35-yard goal in the North London derby. The English winger boasts over 200 Premier League appearances and seven caps for his national team.

Greek striker Giorgos Samaras brings power and clinical finishing to the pitch. After a stint at Manchester City, he became a cult hero at Celtic, winning four league titles. Samaras earned 81 caps for Greece, including a memorable goal that secured qualification for the 2014 World Cup. His presence adds a layer of international prestige to the Bulgarian charity event.

Sebastien Bassong, the Cameroonian defender, is renowned for his athleticism and composure. He made a strong impression at Newcastle United, leading to a transfer to Tottenham. Bassong later served as captain and a key figure for Norwich City. With nearly 200 Premier League games and a spot at the 2010 World Cup, he represents one of the most reliable defenders in the competition's history.

A Star-Studded Roster for a Noble Cause

These three players join an already impressive list of participants. The lineup includes Bulgarian football legends such as Dimitar Berbatov, Martin Petrov, Krasimir Balakov, and Zlatko Yankov. Former national team stalwarts Dimiter Dimitrov, Lyubomir Sheitanov, and Nedelcho Matushev are also confirmed. The roster extends to other notable names like Valeri Bozhinov, Ilian Iliev, and Georgi Peev.

International stars also feature prominently. England goalkeeper Joe Hart, former Manchester United defender Wes Brown, and Nigerian striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni are set to appear. Other English Premier League veterans include James Collins, Stewart Downing, Richard Dunne, Mark Albrighton, Gabriel Agbonlahor, Phil Bardsley, and Billy Wingrove. The sheer volume of talent underscores the scale of the event.

The "Match of Hope" will unite sports stars, public figures, and artists to support specific causes. Funds raised will aid the Complex Oncology Center in Burgas. Proceeds will also support the medical treatment of Bulgarian football legends Petar Hubchev and Lyuboslav Penev. Additionally, the charity drive aims to assist cancer patients across the entire country.

Tickets are available online via Eventim.bg. Fans can also purchase them at partner locations including OMV gas stations, Technopolis malls, Orange stores, and Office 1 outlets. In Burgas, physical ticket windows are located at the Clock Tower and the Opera House. Eventim Bulgaria