By: Mfundo Mabaso

The Durban Under19 International Football Tournament was officially closed on Saturday at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

The tournament ended after 11 days of fighting spirit from the youngsters. Although the results did not go the local team’s way, the tournament was a success said the organizer, Mathew
Broomhall.

“It has been a huge success for everybody concerned. The standard of football has been fantastic this year and we saw a lot of goals.

Those who got a chance to watch the tournament here at the
stadiums and on TV- they’ve seen another quality tournament, representing the best under19 teams in the world,” explained Broomhall.

The South African under19 national team fought until the end, grabbing third place. Broomhall said that the team’s success offers hope for the future of South African football, specifically
Bafana Bafana.

“It is also an example of youth development here in South Africa, with the South African national team finishing third and the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Academy almost making it out of
the group stages,” added Broomhall.

Arsenal Football Club clinched the title after beating PSV Eindhoven in the finals.

Supporters in the stadium were in favor of the Gunners that made the final game interesting.

Gunners’ coach, Steve Gatting, hailed the organizers for a good tournament and good competition.

He said, “It is not my decision whether we are going to come back next year but we had a fantastic time here.”

KZN Premier, Senzo Mchunu was amongst the dignitaries in the final.