On August 14, Beijing on the Chinese mainland came alive as the 10th Great Wall Cup International Youth Football Invitational Tournament kicked off, marking a milestone in global youth sports.
Recognized as one of the world's premier U16 competitions, this year's lineup features eight elite squads: Real Madrid CF (Spain), Sporting CP (Portugal), AJ Auxerre (France), Crvena Zvezda (Serbia), FC Dinamo Tbilisi (Georgia), Odi Akhmedov Football Academy (Uzbekistan), JEJU SK FC (Republic of Korea), and host side Beijing (China).
Across six days, teams will face off in high-stakes matches that blend technical skill and competitive spirit. Alongside the tournament, a curated Cultural Day invites players to explore the Great Wall, experience Peking Opera, and connect with Beijing's rich heritage.
Launched in 2010, the Great Wall Cup has been held nine times, evolving into a global showcase that promotes youth football, fuels international exchange, and underscores Beijing's image as a "Dual Olympic City."
For global fans and aspiring players, the 10th Great Wall Cup offers more than goals and saves – it's a living story of friendship, cultural discovery, and the unifying power of football.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
