In Support of the 2024 AFC U-20 Women's Asian Cup

20.03.2024

Dear readers,

I would like to share with you the joy of having followed the 2024 AFC U-20 Women's Asian Cup in Uzbekistan this month. You might now wonder why I have been watching almost every game of this competition while cleaning my apartment, cooking, correcting evaluations, doing the dishes, doing the laundry, making the bed and reading my mail.

First and foremost, this competition has been positively surprising with high-quality football including stellar goaltending, disciplined defending, creative midfields and explosive attacks.

The different matches have offered everything one could desire as a football fan from hard-fought draws over tight defeats and victories to several stunning results including up to thirteen goals per match.

Up next, this tournament is showcasing the starlets of tomorrow who have shown much courage, energy and will to impress, learn and succeed.

This competition has also been introducing me to national teams that don't necessarily participate in the biggest international tournaments such as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Uzbekistan and Taiwan.

Another reason is to get to know the country of Uzbekistan that is rarely hosting such international events and the capital city of Tashkent has impressed me with its unique mixture of Islamic architecture, remnants of the Soviet era and beautiful mountainous landscapes.

If compared to men's soccer, I have noted three very positive elements that have impressed me greatly. First and foremost, the respect shown between players from different nations with contrasting ideologies has been heart-warming throughout the tournament. Secondly, the players and coaching staff have shown much respect to the referees instead of constantly criticizing them. Lastly, the games have been played very fairly without any harsh fouls, fake injuries or rude insults. Many people could learn a thing or two about sportswomanship and take this remarkable inspiration to apply it in their very own lives.

I have decided to link the highlights of all sixteen games played throughout the tournament. These videos can't be viewed directly on my website but you can click on the links and enjoy them on YouTube. I certainly hope that you appreciate these videos as much as I do.

I'm already looking forward to watching the next edition of this tournament as well as similar competitions in the future. Perhaps you would care to join and discover something exciting, inspiring and new as well.

Group A: Republic of Korea versus Australia