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Collin Matiza
TEAM ZIMBABWE have described their participation at the just-ended 2024 Homeless World Cup football tournament in Seoul, South Korea, as an unforgettable experience for them and the Young Achievement Sports for Development who took them to Asia.
They also said they returned home with new-found pride, inspiration, and a renewed commitment to empowering marginalised youth through sports.
Speaking to Zimpapers Sports Hub yesterday, Petros Chatiza, the director of YASD, said the 2024 Homeless World Cup has had a profound impact on their players and their development programmes.
“As the director of Young Achievement Sports for Development (YASD), I was privileged to be part of the Zimbabwe delegation in Seoul. “Our team consisted of five players (four males and one female) selected from marginalised communities in Bulawayo, Seke, and Mabvuku.
“These young individuals have faced various social challenges, including lack of access to education and employment opportunities,” Chatiza said.
The team participated in the D’Live Cup (Tier 4) and exceeded expectations by winning the championship.
Their journey was marked by:
Initial struggles, with narrow losses to Uganda, Lithuania, and Ireland
A turning point in the tournament, with a 6-0 win against Cambodia
A thrilling quarter-final victory against Hong Kong (6-0)
A nail-biting semi-final win against South Korea (6-5)
The championship final against Denmark, won via a penalty shoot-out (6-6, 4-3 pens)
They had Linnet Moyo winning the Best Goalkeeper Award.
“Our outstanding goalkeeper, Linnet Moyo, received the Best Goalkeeper award in the men’s category, a historic achievement for Zimbabwe and YASD,” Chatiza said.
“This was through resilience and teamwork. The team’s ability to overcome adversity and work together was inspiring.”
On skill development, Chatiza said the players demonstrated significant improvement in their football skills throughout the tournament.
The team was also involved in cultural exchange programmes.
“The team engaged with participants from 50+ countries, fostering global understanding and friendships.
“The experience boosted the players’ confidence, self-esteem, and aspirations.
“On impact and plans, the 2024 Homeless World Cup has had a profound impact on our players and YASD’s pro-grammes.
“This has increased visibility and recognition for YASD’s work; enhanced partnerships with local and international organizations; expanded outreach and recruitment programmes for marginalized youth and developed football and life skills training programmes. “We extend our gratitude to BetterBrands and Elmala Sports for their sponsorship, the Zimbabwe Government for their support, the Homeless World Cup organization for an exceptional tournament, and our team’s coaching staff, medical support, and volunteers. “In conclusion, the 2024 Homeless World Cup was an unforgettable experience for Team Zimbabwe and YASD. We return home with newly-found pride, inspiration, and a renewed commitment to empowering marginalised youth through sports.”
Online Reporter