Dubai: AC Milan coach Cristian Brocchi has promised he will return to Dubai to defend their title at the Hamdan Bin Mohammad U-18 International Football Tournament next year.
Brocchi’s team got the better of Spanish champions Real Madrid 2-1 in the final of the fifth edition of this annual tournament at the Dubai Police Officers Club on Sunday.
Saeed Hareb, General Secretary, Dubai Sports Council (DSC), was joined by Khalid Al Midfa, Assistant General Secretary, General Authority of Youth and Sports Welfare (GAYSW) and Abdullah Salem, Board Member, Al Nasr club at the presentation of trophies after the final.
The Italians got both their goals through captain Davide Di Molfetta in the 14th and 41st minutes, while Moroccan winger Marouane Hlal pulled one back late into injury time for Real Madrid.
The first half belonged to the Italians with AC Milan pegging Real Madrid deep into their territory and allowing them very little space. Before the first half ended, skipper Di Molfetta had done all the damage with two well-executed goals – the first was a left-footed strike with a wicked curl in the 14th minute and the second was a sweet jab from the edge of the area with four minutes left for half-time.
“This is one of the best junior tournaments we have participated in and it would be our pleasure to return and defend our title next year,” Brocchi said after the final.
Earlier, three-time defending champions Valencia settled for third place with a hard-fought 2-0 win over Dubai Club. Up against a determined side, Valencia opened the scoring at the end of the first half when Ivan Martinez scrambled home. After both sides missed scoring opportunities, it was Daniel Ruiz putting the issue safe in the 86th minute from the penalty spot.
Though relieved with a consolation third place, Valencia coach Miguel Grau felt the organisers could pay more attention to the refereeing. “Everything about this tournament is so top-class, but if they can get better referees it will help this event grow and find more favour,” Grau said.
