The final is here – finally!

Finally, we’re here. It’s time. Time for the final of MTG United for Peace cup. The journey has been long and hard, but filled with fun. The big event for 12-14-year old football mad boys and girls kicks off in Oslo, Norway, the 6-9 October.

Twelve teams will get on their planes to defend their country’s colours in the final: the furiously practicing Kalacheevskaya Orphanage who reached their goal and will go on to represent Russia. Team  ”Milosardie” from Lom who have fought its way to become Bulgarian champions. JK Viisu got an outstanding 4-1 win when they became Estonian champions. The tiny Hungarian town of Bököny’s team will be the talk of the town yet again when they travel to the final. The team from Tower Hamlets who proved to be the strongest in the UK.

The winners from the orphanage in Alytus, Lithuania, and the talented team from Imanta Orphanage in Latvia can give their opponents advice on what to expect, since they were also here last year. The team from Aspudden had an even fight when they became Swedish champions and in Denmark Fortuna Hjørring celebrated that they had secured their place in the MTG United for Peace finals. The team from the mountainous region of Gorenjska, Slovenia, and Norway’s team consist of players from many different teams, all chosen for sportsmanship and for being role models in their teams. We also welcome back second time winners, and last years’ winners of the final, the team from Right to Dream Academy in Ghana.

The children will have field days full of football fun, but also lots of other activities. Since the tournament is set to coincide with the announcement of the Nobel Prize laureate, a lot of time will be spent at the School of Tolerance at the Peace Centre in Oslo, to let the children learn more about the importance of peace and the glory of friendship across borders. The children will also get to meet retired football superstars like Viv Anderson, Fredi Bobic and Brian Deane who are supporting our cause by being our peace ambassadors and will offer friendly advice and chat about football.

It will be a magic tournament, at least when the illusionist Alexx Alexxander will put his show on. The singer Åge Sten Nilsen and the three tenors in Eclipse will also make sure the children are having a great time. And regarding the big success from last year: yes - we will hold a pizza party and dinner at Åråsen. MTG United for Peace is counting the days...