Abu Dhabi: The International Golden Group team delivered a powerful statement of their intent to win the women’s football competition at the ongoing 16th Armed Forces Officers’ Club (AFOC) Ramadan Festival when they trounced Etihad Airways 18-0 in their opening match late on Tuesday night.
Ana Savila was the star for the team, which features players from Spain, after scoring seven goals in the rout.
“We came to win the title,” said Abdul Elaah Bin Naeim, the Moroccan coach of the Spanish side after the match. “I believe that Thailand will be our most serious rivals.”
Thailand, the defending champions, beat Abu Dhabi Club B team 3-0.
But the scoreline could have been even more emphatic had it not been for the heroics of Noora Al Mazrouie, the goalkeeper of the UAE women’s national team.
On Thursday Al Reem face Thailand and Abu Dahbi B take on Europe in Group A, while Etihad Airways tackle the Abu Dahbi A team.
Lt. General (r) Mohammad Hilal Al Kaabi, the Chairman of the Organising Committee, who attended the opening of the women’s football competition, praised the high quality of the tournament so far.
“I am really happy with the quality of players and standards of the game shown by the participating teams in this competition. I am sure the event will help our young players gain experience and improve their capabilities.
“The tournament shows how far UAE women have progressed in the world of sport, as they have gained vital experience playing against top teams from Asia and Europe.”
Thursday will also see the men’s teams tackle the quarter-final stage of the tournament, while the bowling and PlayStation competitions will come to an end.
