The 2023 WMF Minifootball World Cup has officially kicked off in Ras Al Khaimah in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.
32 national teams came together at the WMF Stadium on Ras Al Khaimah’s Al Marjan Island to celebrate the opening of the eagerly anticipated international sporting spectacle.
The opening ceremony set the scene for a thrilling two-week tournament which promises an electric atmosphere both on and off the pitch.
With Ras Al Khaimah Police celebrating the momentous occasion with the UAE national anthem parade and live performances from local and Indian dance troops, spectators at the opening day of the tournament were treated to a colourful and energetic display of dance, lighting special effects, and live music.
Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “We are thrilled to be the first destination to bring the tournament to the Middle East, welcoming 32 nations from around the world and their fans to Ras Al Khaimah – a home of everyday legends.
As the 2023 WMF Minifootball World Cup kicks off, last night’s opening ceremony marks ten days of buzz and excitement across the emirate. Minifootball is a sport that’s available to all and we are proud to be making it accessible to both visitors and residents in Ras Al Khaimah.”
Filip Juda, President of the World Minifootball Federation, said: “I am delighted to see the 2023 Minifootball World Cup kick-off in the beautiful emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.
The international Minifootball community is growing fast and to bring our sport to the Middle East for the first time is a proud moment for us.
Ras Al Khaimah not only provides a spectacular Arabian Gulf backdrop for our tournament but also opens new horizons for minifootball’s visibility and development.”
The opening day of the 10-day tournament saw 16 teams in Groups A, B, C, and D kick-off proceedings in eight nail-biting matches in the knock-out round as the UAE headlined the tournament in its debut match against India, winning 1-0.
Other highlights from the first day of minifootball action include Mexico securing a mighty 6-0 victory over Ireland and Spain drawing 2-2 with the USA.
Also in attendance and helping to build the hype amongst sports fans was ‘Falco’ – the tournament’s official mascot. The falcon symbolises deep cultural and historical importance in the UAE and embodies traits that align with the spirit of the WMF Minifootball World Cup tournament.
Across the next nine days, sports fans can watch all of the action for free, simply by registering at the official website visitrasalkhaimah.com/minifootball/.
The knockout stage of 16 matches will culminate in the quarterfinals and semi-finals, followed by the highly anticipated World Cup final match on 4th November.
The 2023 WMF Minifootball World Cup is set to raise the bar for minifootball competitions, showcasing top international talent, intense rivalries, and an unforgettable sporting spectacle in the backdrop of Ras Al Khaimah.
For more information about the Minifootball World Cup and updates on the tournament, visit the official WMF website at www.minifootball.com or www.wmfworldcup.com. Alternatively, check out Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.