The second edition of the Football Fives World Championship takes place in Dubai next week with 48 nations expected to take part.
After six months of qualifying across China, Australia and Colombia – the event rolls into SkyDive Dubai from 23-25 April.
With the tournament going from strength to strength, Football Fives Director James Davies-Yandle said: “We want everyone to have the chance to compete in a tournament like this, and to be able to gain the opportunity to represent your country is a dream for any football fan would want to achieve.”
Tournament ambassadors and beIN Sport duo Andy Gray and Richard Keys were at the launch of the event at Emirates Golf Club on Tuesday.
Gray said: “These guys are coming to Dubai to represent their country and they have one ambition: to be the best. There’s no greater feeling if you’re a footballer or an athlete. It will mean the world to them.
The Football Five’s World Championship presented by Ford Middle East is back in Dubai! 48 nations will compete… http://t.co/wqY8hzKMIf
— F5WC (@football5wc) April 15, 2015
“In five-a-side football you’ll see more technical ability than on any football pitch anywhere. It’s tight, so the skill set has to be higher, and players have to get involved more often. If you’re not sharp or up to speed you’ll get left behind.”
In the lead up to the event, each country hosted a 5-aside qualifying tournament to find their best amateur football team, with the winners invited to participate in the F5WC World Finals in Dubai.
The games begin midday Thursday 23 with 12 groups comprising of four teams. The final is set for 8pm on Saturday April 24.
The World finals will be broadcast live on television to over 60 countries.
Admission is free for all spectators and the day includes music and competitions each day.
