Facebook Twitter (X) Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
On Monday, Somalia’s U-15 football team, affectionately known as the “Indian Ocean Team,” departed Mogadishu for Kampala, Uganda, to compete in the CAF African Schools Football Championship – CECAFA qualifiers. The tournament, hosted at St. Mary’s Stadium in Kitende, is set to begin on December 10, 2024.
The Somali Football Federation, alongside key sports officials, organized a ceremonial send-off for the team, expressing optimism about their performance in this prestigious youth competition.
Strong Leadership and Aspirations
Coach Mahad Mohamed Haji Maicon will lead the Somali squad as they aim to bring home the championship trophy. The team is determined to showcase their talent on a regional stage and inspire young athletes in Somalia.
Tournament Overview
The CECAFA qualifiers feature teams in both the Boys’ and Girls’ categories, highlighting the region’s young football talent:
Boys’ Teams: Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Somalia, Rwanda
Girls’ Teams: Uganda, Burundi, Tanzania, Rwanda
The tournament kicks off with opening matches in both categories on December 10. Tanzania will face Burundi in the Boys’ category, while Tanzania will play against Rwanda in the Girls’ category. The action intensifies on December 11, with four Boys’ matches and two Girls’ matches scheduled.
Spotlight on Youth Talent in East Africa
The championship is an essential platform for nurturing young talent across East Africa, offering participants the opportunity to gain valuable experience and exposure. Somalia’s involvement underscores the country’s commitment to developing its football infrastructure and empowering its youth through sports.
Building Momentum for Somali Football
The Somali Football Federation has been actively promoting the sport, aiming to inspire the next generation of football stars. Initiatives like this international competition highlight Somalia’s growing investment in sports as a unifying and developmental force.
Looking Ahead
As the Somali U-15 team heads into the tournament, fans and officials alike remain hopeful that these young athletes will make their mark on the competition and bring pride to their country.