The 2024 Inter-State and Region Futsal Championship officially began with an opening ceremony held yesterday afternoon at the Wunna Theikdi Sports Complex in Nay Pyi Taw. The event was graced by members of the State Administration Council, who attended to show their support.
Union Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs U Min Thein Zan, who is also Chairman of the Myanmar Olympic Committee, addressed the gathering, highlighting the significance of organizing such state and regional futsal tournaments. He emphasized that these competitions serve as a vital foundation for discovering and nurturing new talents and expressed hope that the event will lead to the emergence of outstanding young players. He urged all involved, including organizers and competitors, to work diligently to ensure the success of the championship and maintain the highest standards of sportsmanship and fairness.
During the opening ceremony, athletes recited the sportsmanship oath. Following this, SAC members, including Union Minister U Min Thein Zan, personally greeted the players and observed the ongoing matches.
In the initial matches, the Yangon Region team defeated the Bago Region team 5-0, while the Ayeyawady Region and Rakhine State teams drew 2-2. Shan State won against Taninthayi Region 4-3. The Nay Pyi Taw team and Kayah State drew 1-1, and Mandalay Region and Magway Region ended their match in a goalless draw.
In the women’s category, Nay Pyi Taw trounced Chin State 7-1, and Kachin State triumphed over Taninthayi Region 5-0. The competition, running from 11 to 19 August, features 15 men’s teams and 14 women’s teams, totalling 525 participants. The public is encouraged to attend and support the event free of charge. — MNA/KZL
