Roberto Carlos brought plenty of smiles to a Shrewsbury-based Sunday league team following his cameo appearance.
The Brazilian World Cup winner turned out pub team Bull in the Barne United on Friday after they won the "Dream Transfer" raffle on eBay.
The 48-year-old featured in a 4-3 defeat by fellow Shrewsbury and District Sunday League Division One team Harlescott Rangers at the Hanwood Village Hall Recreation Centre.
Carlos, who lifted three Champions League trophies with Real Madrid during his career, came off the bench as a first half substitute in Shropshire. He notched a goal too, from the penalty spot.
But despite not the ideal result, it proved to be a truly memorable occasion for all those involved.
And there were more surreal moments for the amateurs post-match - after a phone debrief with another World Cup winner, Sergio Ramos.
A video has since gone viral on social media showing the PSG defender answering Carlos' call in a local pub with his new teammates.
After a short wait for Ramos to answer, the gathered players were delighted when the Spaniard's face appeared on Carlos' phone.
It completed a momentous day for Bull in the Barne United.
Ed Speller, manager and goalkeeper for the side, reflected on the whirlwind day, saying: “Roberto Carlos is one of those legends who has inspired so many young players’ love of the game.
"My jaw absolutely dropped when we found out Bull in the Barne won the Dream Transfer and he’d be playing alongside the team in Shrewsbury.
"We can safely say it's the best moment of our footballing careers, and it's been one of the best days of our lives probably."
Carlos said after his debut: "I'm very happy to be back playing. Football is amazing and even though I've had the opportunity to play with the biggest names in world football, playing here is very enjoyable. Always good to score a goal!
"A lot of people don't realise that even though I played with some of the biggest clubs and best players in the world, I started 'here' in Brazil, at 13, 14 years old. It brings back great memories for me, playing on pitches like this.
"I really enjoyed it. I also come from a small-town background so I like the vibe in the area.
"It's just amazing that football gives you these opportunities to be able to meet new people, new cultures, different places.
"I certainly haven't been somewhere like this before."
Money raised from the raffle has gone to Football Beyond Borders, a charity that helps disadvantaged young people in the community.
After the match Carlos showed his star power, taking time to meet youngsters, signing a clutch of Bull in the Barne shirts, and going to say hello to locals who attended to cheer the teams on.
Carlos amassed 125 caps across his international career, scoring 11 times.
It was his spell with Real Madrid that really saw him mark himself out as one of the world's best players and he was renowned for his free-kicks, which were struck with huge power.
