Cape Town - It has been announced that Cape Town will once again host the Five-A-Side World Championships, the biggest amateur football tournament in the world. Taking place this weekend from November 30 - December 1 at the Century City Fives Futbol facilities.
This year's championship kicked off at the beginning of the year with over 150 000 players competing in knock out games from over 127 countries in a 6-month long qualifying league. 23 Teams from across the world are heading to Cape Town to participate in the finals this weekend.
Logistical issues in 2018 saw Cape Town step in as hosts of the tournament at the eleventh hour. Following the success and positive reviews from organisers and players alike, the city was offered hosting honours for 2019.
The F5WC hosting rights has been awarded to South Africa's largest 5 a side operator, Fives Futbol.
"We saw an opportunity after the success of last year to once again showcase our magical city to an impressive lineup of global competitors and fans. With a little more time to plan we hope to put on an even greater event than before.
"It has been terrific to feel the enthusiasm in the build-up from players, teams, sponsors and fans. Spectators can expect a high energy atmosphere with world-class football." CEO of Fives Futbol, Adam Fine said.
Highlights from the 2018 tournament saw Argentina beat Bulgaria 2-1 in a tightly contested final to take top honours at the Championship. While the SA women's team had a home soil Championship victory by beating the Swedish women's team 5-1.
South Africa will once again be represented in the tournament, this year by the Orlando Pirates Fives Team. Captained by Jose Garcia the team has dominated local tournaments and leagues in a bid to lift the silverware in this weekends finals.
The Championship games will start on Saturday from 10:00 and Sunday from 09:00 at Fives Futbol, Century City.