AFTER hosting Heineken’s Champions League final viewing party on Saturday at the National Indoor Centre, Florent Malouda took to the pitch the following day at the Football Factory to mix and mingle with local footballers in an exhibition match.

The five-a-side match saw local players from both Tivoli Gardens FC and Waterhouse FC getting 15 minutes a half to display their skills alongside Heineken’s guest.

“This is a great opportunity for local players to interact with a successful international player. He wanted to do this and it shows his desire for our local game,” said Heineken brand manager Nasha-Monique Douglas.

‘Flo’, as he is affectionately called, showed glimpses of his technical ability by stroking around deft passes as well as the inventive back-heel and occasional nutmegs (salads) much to the delight of fans in attendance.

The Jamaican players, in an attempt not to appear star-struck, displayed their flair also, though sometimes overdoing it, but it was all in good fun.

“Heineken has always been a cutting edge and inventive brand for consumers. Bringing ‘Flo’ to Jamaica to partake in our Champions League event highlights this commitment and has internationalised Jamaica’s football image,” Douglas said.

The game ended 5-3, with Waterhouse claiming bragging rights.