Petr Cech’s surprise return to football aged 43 has pitch invasion after incredible goal

Petr Cech enjoyed an eventful a return to football on Monday night, as he took to the pitch in Baller League.

At 43 years old, the legendary Chelsea goalkeeper was called up by former teammate John Terry to feature for his 26ers side in the latest edition of the popular six-a-side tournament.

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This wasn’t the first time that Cech has been back between the sticks in recent months, having also lined up for a Chelsea Legends XI in a charity match against Liverpool Legends in October.

And he was handed another chance to showcase his skills in goal on Monday, as he was drafted in for a key game for Terry’s 26ers.

After injury to regular goalkeeper Serine Sanneh, the Blues icon made the call to his old mate ahead of his team’s final group stage game.

There was plenty riding on the clash, with the 26ers knowing a win would see them qualify for the competition’s final four and Baller League finale, taking place on Sunday.

Cech’s moment to forget

Donning his iconic headgear Cech lined up alongside his new teammates against Rukkas FC, managed by leading actor Idris Elba.

And the iconic stopper was in the thick of the action straight away, making a key save at 0-0, and then having an attempt on goal immediately after gathering the ball.

But things soon took a turn for the worse, as the 26ers went 1-0 down, before Cech was left with a red face.

Rukkas player Mussa Bham dribbled his way through the defence of Terry’s side, and then he found himself one-on-one with Cech.

And Bham was unfazed by the Chelsea great’s reputation, as he coolly dinked the ball over Cech’s head to score.

This sparked wild scenes, with the entire Rukkas bench rushing onto the pitch to celebrate with Bham, including star actor Elba.

Fortunately for Cech, his blushes were spared, as Terry’s side fought back to make it 2-2.

But it was heartbreak in the end for the 26ers, as they missed out final four finish by failing to win their last match.

In their place, Niko Omilana’s NDL FC, Miniminter’s M7 FC, Sharky’s SDS FC and Wembley Rangers, managed by Ian Wright, booked their spots in Sunday’s finale.

Despite the disappointment, Cech admitted he had enjoyed his dramatic return to football – albeit in a different format.

Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “Obviously disappointed that we didn’t find the goal at the end, because we had some good chances but we were a bit unlucky

“But I enjoyed it, I enjoyed the atmosphere and the crowd and everything, so it was nice to be there.”

When asked about being chipped by Mussa Bham, Cech was reluctant to give to much praise to his opponent.

The Czech said: “We can give it to him, because obviously he managed to get there. So yeah, well played to him.”

Elba chimed in at this point, cheekily adding: “Goal of the season.”

And the BAFTA award-winning actor, who was knighted in the New Year’s Honours List, had some kind words for Terry’s side – and Cech himself.

He said: “I’ve got to shout out the 26s, they played well. But we’re the giant-killers Rukkas FC.

“We had the great Petr Cech, he did amazing. But ultimately this is Ballers FC, it’s a different league.”

Unfortunately for Cech however, there will be no follow-up appearances in Baller League, as he and the rest of 26ers will be forced to watch Sunday’s finale from home.