Félix Houphouët-Boigny stadium: young players from Abidjan academies play selection matches

Young players from several Abidjan football academies played selection matches this Tuesday afternoon on the pitch of the Félix Houphouët-Boigny stadium, in Plateau. Each team played two twenty-minute games in front of coaches who came to spot players to follow this season.

For most of these 16 to 19-year-olds, it was the first time they had played on a major stadium pitch. The stands were open free of charge to families, and a few hundred spectators watched the games despite overcast skies.

Coaches on site say they want more of these events, which let young players experience real match conditions, with referees and a clock. Academies often lack pitches in good condition in their neighbourhoods and train on dirt surfaces the rest of the year.

What the creator verified this Tuesday: how the matches unfolded, filmed from the touchline, and the families present in the stands. What remains to be confirmed: how many players will be selected and the date of the next session.