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Aspire Academy hosted a star-studded five-a-side charity football tournament at the weekend as five teams, comprising local and international stars, took to the pitch to raise money for charity.
The line-up at Aspire Academy’s second charity football event on Saturday included French players Laurent Robert and Didier Domi.
The inaugural tournament, which took place in January, also attracted a collection of international spectators including legendary footballer Zinedine Zidane and the Real Madrid C.F. team.
Explaining the idea behind the showcase Tournament Director, Larbi El’Bahraoui, said: “These tournaments are not only meant to raise money for charity but to also promote five-a-side football as a sport. In France and the UK it is already very popular, but in Qatar it has yet to become so.”
Praising the tournament former French national team player, Laurent Robert, said: “This was a great event and a chance to catch up with old friends while we promote five-a-side football to young players.”
Former Morocco international, Fidadi Mohamed, who now coaches the U12 team at the Al Shamal Sports Club, said: “I really enjoyed this tournament as it was a chance for me to meet up with players I have not seen in a long time while playing for a good cause.”
Meanwhile French footballer and goalkeeper coach, Wadii Fadly, who is a first time participant, said: “This event was extraordinary as it was a great opportunity to meet with different footballers from around the world.”
The tournament was organized by France’s Elite 5 Event in collaboration with Aspire Academy, Université Paris Dauphine, and BURRDA SPORT.