Zimpapers Writer
THE Alibaba Foundation has launched the Alibaba Foundation Youth Tournament, with the inaugural edition set for November 14 and 15.
The draw for the tournament was held this afternoon at the Zifa Southern Region offices, with Zifa Southern Region chairman Chris Mtungwazi and Zifa Bulawayo Province board member Mkhululi Mthunzi conducting the proceedings.
The Under-15 competition is the brainchild of legendary junior football coach Ali “Baba” Dube and is sponsored by his foundation.
Dube said he was inspired by the Aberdeen Youth Tournament, which he attended in the late 1980s and early 1990s as part of the Highlanders delegation that travelled to the United Kingdom to participate in various competitions.
Twelve teams will compete over the two days, with a range of prizes on offer for the eventual winners.
Speaking during the draw, Mtungwazi urged sponsors to come on board and support the initiative, commending Dube for the passion and commitment he has demonstrated towards football development over the years.
He pledged to assist Dube in securing sponsors for next year’s tournament.
Mthunzi urged participating teams to uphold the spirit of fair play and desist from fielding over-age players in pursuit of victory, warning that the practice undermined the genuine development of young footballers.
Draw
Group A: Alibaba, Rio Stars, Tigers.
Group B: Real Stars, PSG, Supernets.
Group C: Biya, Highlanders, East Rovers.
Group D: Toronto, Rangemore, Mountain Climbers.
