By Nisar Ahmad Sapand
ZABUL: A four team football tournament concluded in Shajoy district of Zabul province with Shobar Esteqlal emerging as champions after defeating Shobar Meniwal 3-2 in the final match.
The tournament, organized by the Afghanistan Football Federation’s local representatives in coordination with the Directorate of Physical Education, Sports, and the National Olympic Committee, kicked off 12 days ago in the Shobar area of Shajoy district.
The participating teams included Meniwal, Lmar, Shobar Esteqlal, and Hilal. Following competitive matches, Shobar Esteqlal and Shobar Meniwal reached the finals, where Shobar Esteqlal secured the championship title in a close contest.
Despite playing on dusty, uneven grounds with no standard football pitches, limited facilities, and minimal equipment, local players displayed remarkable patience, passion, and dedication to the game. Organizers emphasized that such tournaments reflect the resilience and love for football among Afghan youth, even in areas with limited sports infrastructure.
The primary aim of the event was to provide healthy recreation for youth and to encourage sportsmanship and community engagement in the district.
