11 Dec 2024
Aspire Academy continues to uphold its commitment to developing Qatar's young football talent by welcoming international teams for friendly matches. In recent months, the academy has hosted teams from Poland, Kuwait, Uzbekistan, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia, providing valuable opportunities for players to gain international exposure.
The latest visitors were Poland's RKS Raków Under-13 and Under-14 teams, following November visits from Kuwait's national Under-16 squad and two teams from Uzbekistan's FC Do'stlik academy. October saw Aspire Academy hosting teams from Saudi Arabia's Mahd Academy and Malaysia's National Football Development Programme.
Polish Team Gains International Experience
RKS Raków's Under-15 and Under-13 Goalkeeping Coach, Jacek Moskwa, described the trip as invaluable for his players:
"It was a priceless experience for each of us. Competing internationally is crucial for our players' development. Additionally, adapting to life in a different culture is an essential skill for athletes today," Moskwa said.
"Aspire Academy is a world-leading youth development centre. The facilities and hospitality we experienced were of the highest standard."
Aspire Academy's Under-13 Coach, Joseba Bikandi, emphasized the learning opportunities provided by the games: "Playing against the Polish team challenged us to adapt to a different game plan and greater pressure. These matches reinforced the importance of daily training, personal involvement, and preparation for the demands of high-level football." The matches between Aspire and RKS Raków ended with two wins for the Polish side, one for Aspire, and one draw.
Longstanding Relationship with Kuwait
Kuwait's Under-16 team has been a regular visitor to Aspire Academy for over 15 years. Head Coach Tareq Alkhulaify praised the academy's influence on his coaching approach: "Aspire Academy is among the best in the world, not only for its facilities but also for the quality of players it develops. My time here has given me insights into their training system, which we strive to implement in Kuwait." Kuwait's team played two matches against Aspire Academy, with Aspire securing victories in both.
Uzbekistan Teams Inspired by Aspire
Uzbekistan's FC Do'stlik academy sent teams from its 2013 and 2014 generations to Aspire Academy for a week of intensive training. They played eight matches against Aspire's feeder teams, with Aspire winning five, two games ending in draws, and FC Do'stlik taking one win.
Team Manager Bobur Alimardonov highlighted the valuable lessons learned: "Seeing Aspire Academy in person was truly impressive. The coaches' supportive approach and the collaboration among staff members were exceptional. In our region, coaches often handle everything themselves, but at Aspire, each person has a clear role."
"The players' preparation, both physically and mentally, stood out. They showed discipline and tactical awareness, immediately reacting when losing possession and working together to regain control," he added.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
These friendly matches are part of Aspire Academy's ongoing efforts to build international relationships and enhance the skills of its players through exposure to different playing styles and cultures. The academy remains committed to fostering a high-performance environment that prepares players for the demands of professional football.
Saudi Arabia's national team for the 2010 generation will be the final visitors in 2024, marking another chapter in Aspire Academy's mission to develop talent and promote sports excellence.
Aspire Academy's international friendlies serve as a platform for growth, exchange, and inspiration, both for its players and visiting teams, reinforcing its position as a global leader in youth sports development.