Lassana Diarra – Real Madrid (22/02/2011)

Here is an invaluable collector's item from one of the most intense classics in European football. This match-worn jersey was worn by French international defensive midfielder Lassana Diarra during the Champions League round of 16 first leg between Olympique Lyonnais and Real Madrid.

Match Context: OL Secures a Draw Against Their Bogey Team

Having become a must-see fixture in the Champions League, this clash at the Gerland stadium saw José Mourinho's Real Madrid travel with the firm intention of bringing down Lyon, who had eliminated them at the same stage the previous year. The match lived up to all its promises in terms of intensity. Coming on as a substitute, former Lyon player Karim Benzema silenced Gerland by opening the scoring in the 65th minute (0-1). But Claude Puel's "Gones" had heart: in the 83rd minute, from a free-kick deflected by Cris, striker Bafétimbi Gomis surged in to equalize at close range. Lyon secured a valuable draw (1-1) after an electrifying end to the match.

Lassana Diarra: The Tireless Ball-Winner in the Madrid Midfield

A complete defensive midfielder, renowned for his physical effort and his tackling prowess, Lassana Diarra was one of José Mourinho's key players for locking down big European matches. Starting in front of the defense alongside Xabi Alonso, "Lass" fought a titanic battle, cutting off numerous trajectories and imposing an immense physical challenge on the Lyon midfield for the entire match. Worn during this clash of giants, this legendary jersey features all the exclusive Champions League characteristics (official patches and markings) and bears the scars of this battle. A legendary collector's item for fans of European football history.