(CNN) Liberia president George Weah made a surprise return to football on Tuesday -- playing for his country in a 2-1 defeat to Nigeria.

The 51-year-old, the only African to win the Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year, started the friendly match in the Liberian capital of Monrovia and received a standing ovation after being substituted on 79 minutes.

The game had been arranged to honor Weah, sworn in as president in January, and retire the No. 14 shirt made famous by the former striker during his playing days.

But to some surprise, Weah captained the team and reportedly showed glimpses of his former magic while leading the attack.

Liberian President and African Legend George Weah leading his teammates as skipper at 51 years yesterday in an International friendly. He played 79 minutes as Super Eagles beat Liberia 2-1. pic.twitter.com/SpDUuwm37N — Collins Okinyo (@bedjosessien) September 12, 2018

Opponents Nigeria fielded a relatively strong side for the international friendly, with Leicester City duo Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho both making appearances.

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