Ubungani, meaning 'friendship', is an innovative junior soccer tournament and a first in South Africa.
Three international teams will be visiting SA for the 1st time playing against nine other leading U-15 soccer teams. The event will be hosted at Bedfordview CC with six games daily from Saturday 27 March to 3 April 2004.
Sao Paulo FC, the 2nd largest club in Brazil is sending their U-15 youth team.
The Zambian national U-15 team will be coached by Kalusha Bwalya, the Zambian National team coach and also a SA 2010 WC Bid ambassador.
Inter FC, the national Angolan Cup champions, will be the third team representing the international quartet. They are all being accommodated at Queens High School in Kensington
Local PSL teams Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, Moroka Swallows, Supersport united and Wits are all participating.
The aim of the tournament, sponsored by Ekurhuleni Metro and Chappies, is to cement valuable partnerships and to promote cultural development.
Gauteng Tourism will be hosting the foreign teams three times during their week long stay. Trips to Lesedi Cultural Village, the Lion Park and Gold Reef City have been arranged.
A development clinic will also be held in Kwa Thema on Wednesday 31.
The SA Embassy in Brazil is financially assisting Sao Paulo FC, with all the other teams being accommodated in SA for free.
This inaugural event, organised by Zeca Marques will become an annual event. There has been a huge interest from overseas as many of the youngsters want to come and visit South Africa.
For more information kindly visit the website www.ubungani.co.za or contact Zeca Marques on (082) 896-5563 or Tsholo Matshitse of Papadi on (011) 609-5688.
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