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By Arinze Ude

Crystal Palace v Chelsea - Pre Season Friendly — Mikel and Essien Celebrating Goal in Chelsea Colours. Photo Credit: Getty Images

Super Eagles midfield dynamo, John Obi Mikel, has signed up for Michael Essien’s charity game billed for the 8th of June. The Real Madrid player will be hosting several World Class soccer players to a charity game tagged: “The Game of Hope and Inspiration.” This is Essien’s second charity game as he plans to raise funds for five different, yet to be announced charities. The game will take place at the Accra Sports Stadium. The game will see several World stars such as Petr Cech and Cristiano Ronaldo line up against the finest XI from Africa in a World XI vs Africa XI match. Petr Cech said in a promotional video for the charity game. “I support the Game of Hope for two reasons: first is the reason of the game itself and second is Michael as a person. He is a very generous guy, always positive with a smile on his face and he can spread this amongst the other people. “Games like these can always give hope to everyone and show that there is still unity amongst the people towards the difficulties in our world.” Paolo Ferreira added, “It is really important for us players to give something back and I think what he is doing is amazing and it is fantastic.” Mikel also gave his support in the video, “To give back to society, to the country, to where you come from… and I think Michael has been doing this for the past years, and if there is any way I can support I will do my best.” Michael Essien, an African Union ambassador for peace, organized a similar event that was successful in 2011 and he will be hoping to record the same success this year.