Werder Bremen will host a special celebration match this Saturday as Real Madrid Legends visit the Weserstadion to mark the stadium's 100th anniversary. The fixture is scheduled for September 26 at 18:30, offering fans a nostalgic throwback to the club's illustrious history.

Former long-serving Werder coach Thomas Schaaf will return to the dugout for the occasion. "Gegen die Legenden von Real Madrid wird Thomas Schaaf am Samstag (18:30 Uhr) wieder auf der Trainerbank sitzen," said the 65-year-old. He will oversee a team of Werder alumni facing off against a side of Real Madrid greats.

The unique friendly falls during the Bundesliga's three-week international break. Werder enters this pause in a positive mood following a dramatic 3-2 home win over FC Augsburg in their last outing. Daniel Thioune's side came from two goals down to win with late strikes from Niclas Füllkrug and Mitchell Weiser. That result solidified their league position: Werder Bremen sit eighth in the Bundesliga with seven points from four matches. Their recent form of three wins, one draw, and one loss from the last five competitive games provides a platform of optimism.

The next major challenge awaits on October 9 with an away trip to current leaders Borussia Dortmund. Before that, fans can enjoy the historic duel in a sold-out Weserstadion.

The encounter with the Madrid legends is more than just an exhibition. It is a tribute to the history of the Weserstadion, which has been Werder Bremen's home since 1926. This arena witnessed the club's greatest triumphs, including four German championships and six DFB Cup wins. The stadium centenary provides the occasion to honour these successes and the iconic players of the past once more. For many supporters, it will be an emotional reunion with idols like Claudio Pizarro, Torsten Frings, or Ailton, who could potentially feature.

While the club focuses on the celebrations, planning for the return to league action continues. The injury list featuring Felix Agu, Jens Stage, Justin Njinmah, and Moussa Ndiaye indicates there are still some issues to address within the squad. Coach Thioune will use the break to refine tactical processes and prepare for the difficult away fixture in Dortmund.

The match on Saturday kicks off at 18:30 and will be played in front of a full house. For Werder Bremen, it is the perfect opportunity to celebrate a glorious past before focus fully returns to the present and the mission of maintaining their solid early-season league form.

This story first appeared at sportschau.de