Online Reporter
Tadious Manyepo in BEIJING, China
JADEL Football Academy have extended its stay in China after their 100 Cup triumph sparked interest from clubs seeking matches and scouts wanting a closer look at their players.
The Zimbabwe-based members of the Under-13 side had been scheduled to return home after winning the tournament in Beijing last Thursday, but the academy changed its plans after receiving several requests for friendly matches.
Jadel have already played two matches since lifting the trophy, with about four more lined up before they return home at the beginning of next month.
Academy founder and head coach Walter “Ringers” Musanhu said scouts who watched his players during the tournament wanted another opportunity to assess them.
“The thing is, several teams and scouts are still interested in playing and assessing us after we won the 100 Cup last week,” said Musanhu.
“The 100 Cup tournament is the ultimate competition in youth football, and it attracts thousands of spectators every match day.
“Our boys drew a lot of eyeballs whenever they were playing. They were well drilled, and loads of scouts milled around.”
Musanhu said he had initially intended to take the team home immediately after the tournament before the interest from other teams forced a re-think.
“I was surprised that so many teams then came to me to propose games. At first, I thought, no, we have to immediately go back home.
“But the inquiries were too many to sweep out. Scouts endorsed the matches as they still want to examine some of our players.
“I saw that as an opportunity to give the boys more exposure against teams, especially those we didn’t meet during the 100 Cup. That will help the boys improve in so many aspects.”
The Under-13 side, made up of Zimbabwean and Chinese youngsters, completed an unbeaten run to win the 43rd edition of the tournament.
It was Jadel’s fourth appearance since their debut in 2023. They won the tournament in 2024 before reaching the quarter-finals last year and reclaiming the title this time around.
Their success has also drawn Government recognition back home, with Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire calling for the team to be given a warm reception on their return.
“What Jadel FA have done in putting the country on the map is remarkable. Winning the 100 Cup isn’t a mean feat,” said Machakaire.
“They deserve to be celebrated in a big way.”
