AUCKLAND – Franz Beckenbauer – widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time – is on his way to New Zealand in time for the climax of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The German legend, the only man to have won the FIFA World Cup both as a captain (1974) and as a manager (1990), is expected to arrive in Christchurch this Thursday to attend the semi-finals at QEII Park then travel to Auckland for the final at North Harbour Stadium on Sunday 16 November.

Chris Simpson, CEO of the Local Organising, says hosting Beckenbauer will be a huge honour.

“It is fantastic to have such an icon of world football coming to New Zealand for this tournament,” Simpson said. “I think it will create a real buzz among the football community.”

Beckenbauer is Deputy Chairman of the Organising Committee for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and is a FIFA Executive Committee member. He was also President of the Organising Committee for the FIFA World Cup in Germany 2006.

As a player he earned 103 caps for West Germany, scored 14 goals, played in three FIFA World Cups – winning in West Germany in 1974 – and also won a European Championship in 1972. He is one of only two players in FIFA World Cup history to have won the complete collection of medals (gold, silver, bronze).

In 1972 and 1976 Beckenbauer was voted European Player of the Year and picked up  the German Footballer of the Year titles in 1966, 1968, 1974, 1976. His elegant style, leadership qualities and dominance as a defender earned him the nickname Der Kaiser (the emperor).

On Thursday at QEII Park, Beckenbauer will no doubt be cheering on the German U-17 women’s team as they kick-off against USA at 7:00pm in the second semi-final. Prior to that game Christchurch will host the first semi-final at 4:00pm between the current U-20 world champions Korea DPR and the underdog English team.

The FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup will conclude with the 3rd/4th place play-off and final at 1:00pm and 4:00pm at North Harbour Stadium this Sunday.

Organisers hope the tournament ends on the highest possible note with bumper crowds in both Christchurch and Auckland for the final two match days.

Story courtesy of NZF Media. For more visit www.nzsoccer.com