When Roman Burki let Lars Bender score in last ever game in 2021 | OneFootball

Lars Bender’s superb football career came to an end in May, 2021.

The German midfielder established himself as a legend for Bayer Leverkusen.

He joined the club in 2009 in a move from 1860 Munich.

Bender went on to become make 342 appearances over the next 12 years, hitting the back of the net 27 times.

But all things have to come to an end and, with injuries plaguing the back end of his career, Bender decided to hang up his boots just a month after his 32nd birthday.

His final game came on May 22, 2021 when Leverkusen travelled to the Signal Iduna Park to take on Dortmund for their Bundesliga clash.

Unfortunately, Bender was struggling with injury and was only fit enough to take his place on the bench.

But he was determined to end his career on the football pitch and, in the 89th minute, he came on for his last ever game.

With Leverkusen trailing 3-0, they were given a penalty and Bender took to the pitch to take the spot-kick.

He replaced his identical twin brother, Sven, who was also making his last ever appearance.

Roman Burki was between the sticks for Dortmund and would no doubt have wanted to end his season with a clean sheet.

But, in one of the most beautiful moments ever in football, Bruki decided that it would mean more for Bender if he were to score.

The Leverkusen midfielder stepped up to the spot-kick and planted his effort in the corner.

Burki made no attempt to dive for the penalty and watched on as it sailed past him and into the net.

Bender showed his appreciation and shared a fist-bump and a hug with the Dortmund goalkeeper after scoring. View the wholesome moment below…

VIDEO: Burki lets Bender score penalty in his last ever game

What a moment. It really was football at its most beautiful.

Full credit to Burki. he certainly didn’t have to let Bender score but decided to give him a moment that he will remember for the rest of his life.

Bender made honorary captain at Leverkusen

Bender was made honorary captain for Leverkusen’s match against Werder Bremen in September.

The German, who made 19 caps for his country, reflected on his career before the game.

He told Leverkusen’s official website: “It’s really great to be back and experience the atmosphere here a few minutes before kick-off. I was normally in the dressing room at this time.”

When asked what he missed most, he replied: “The people. You can play football anywhere. But the fans, the club staff, the players and the time we spent together – that’s what I’ve missed most. I really enjoy thinking of my time at Leverkusen.”