28 nations and regions, 200 players unite in China's Zhuhai for football and friendship

From October 18 to 19, the 2025 "GD Youth Link" Guangdong International Friendly Football Match brought together around 200 players from 28 countries and regions, forming 11 teams under the slogan: "Football Without Borders, Friendship in Guangdong."

The tournament featured a diverse mix of foreign consulates, local universities, enterprises, and teams from Hong Kong and Macao, creating a vibrant platform for international exchange through sport.

Chen Guangjun, Vice President of the Guangdong People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, addressed the opening ceremony, emphasizing the role of sports in building international bridges. "Sports are not only key to personal development and socioeconomic progress—they are also a vital vehicle for deepening international exchanges," he stated.

 "Guangdong is accelerating the development of a high-level sports province, and through wider international sports exchanges, we are building bridges that connect countries and peoples."

The sentiment was shared among players. Ivan Rymar, Vice Consul of the Russian Consulate General in Guangzhou, noted, "We're here to make friends, regardless of nationality. Russian and Chinese sports diplomacy is based on mutual respect."

Players also shared proud traditions from their homelands. Moroccan contestant Taoufik Wajih revealed, "Moroccan football is among the best in Africa. We reached fourth place in the World Cup, and we have many players performing well in Europe. For us Moroccans, football is a culture." Algerian goalkeeper Berkane Mohamed added, "In Algeria, people are passionate about football. We have a very strong national team—it's one of the best in Africa, with many players in major clubs like Real Madrid."

For many participants, the event transcended competition. Natnael Tadele from Ethiopia, who represents the team from Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, reflected, "It's not only about playing football—we're making friends and building connections."

Looking ahead, players expressed enthusiasm for Guangdong's sports scene. "I would say that football here in Guangdong is very famous and very competitive," observed Berkane Mohamed. "There are a lot of players with a high level." Ivan Rymar added, "We are very much looking forward to the Chinese National Games, which start next November, and we wish all the best to China."

Following intense matches, Zhuhai Huafa Football Club, Guangdong Experimental High School, and Guangdong University of Foreign Studies emerged as the top three teams. Yet the real victory lay beyond the scores—in new friendships formed and cultural barriers broken down, proving once again that sport speaks a universal language.

Reporter: Guo Zedong

Video & Cover: Qin Shaolong

Text & Video Script: Guo Zedong

Editor: Yuan Zixiang, Ou Xiaoming, James Campion, Shen He

Photo: Guangdong People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries