Finals at ISF WSC Football Morocco 2023: A Celebration of Sportsmanship, Competition, and Friendship
The ISF WSC Football Morocco 2023 has come to a conclusion with the incredible showdown between the finalists, China1 and China (Girls) and France and Morocco (Boys), followed by the trophy presentation ceremony.
On July 28, 2023, the boys and girls finalists of the championship played their last matches at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, in front of an enthusiastic crowd.
After facing Germany and Uganda in the semi-finals, China1 and China2 emerged victorious to compete in the women's final. After 35 minutes of play, China2 took the lead with a magnificent goal by Wang Dantong, giving them an advantage at halftime.
In the second half, the tables turned. China1 equalized in the 19th minute and secured the trophy with a second goal during the two minutes of added time.
Following this incredible match, Laurent Petrynka, the President of the ISF, and Abdesselam Mili, President of the LOC, conducted the ISF flag handover to P.R. China, represented by Damin Li, the Vice Mayor of Dalian City, as they will host the next ISF Football World Cup Dalian 2024 P.R. China.
Later in the evening, the French and Moroccan teams (boys) prepared for an intense battle. The match displayed a level of competitiveness worthy of a grand World Cup encounter, captivating the audience throughout. In a challenging first half for both teams, France seized the opportunity offered by the Moroccan team one minute before the end of the first period. Despite the Moroccan U16's determination and desire to equalize, they couldn't overcome the French defense.
As the match kept the spectators on the edge of their seats, the French team emerged victorious, becoming the world champions of ISF World Football School Championship 2023.
To conclude the evening, the ISF President Laurent Petrynka, ISF Vice President Youssef Belqasmi, President of LOC Royal Moroccan School Sport Federation Abdesselam Mili, Hrvoje Custonja (ISF Secretary General/CEO), Olabisi Joseph (EC member), Ailong Zhang (ISF Vice President), Tarik Najem (General Secretary of Royal Moroccan Football Federation) and Chakib Benmoussa (Minister of National Education, Preschool and Sports) awarded medals to the top three teams in both the boys and girls championships, as well as the Fair Play medals. France, Morocco, and Croatia received honors in the boys' category, while China1, China2, and Uganda were recognized in the girls' category. Additionally, Ukraine and Mexico were commended for their fair play towards other teams during the competition.
Before returning to their respective countries, all delegations will have the opportunity to enjoy a cultural day, exploring the architecture of Rabat, as well as participating in the "Nations Night," an evening of cultural exchange, friendship building, and laughter.
After this championship, it becomes even clearer that ISF events are not just about sports competitions. They are primarily centered around the values of sportsmanship and education, allowing young athletes to experience incredible sporting moments while forging unforgettable international connections.
See you for the next challenge from 17th to 27 May 2024 in Dalian.
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