The 2019 edition of the Tic2f (International Tournament of Football Training Centers) kicks off this Monday in Porto-Novo, bringing together some of the best U17 clubs from across West and Central Africa. A total of 11 teams are registered for the ninth edition of the tournament, representing Burkina Faso, Ghana, Cameroon, Niger, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Mali, and the host nation, Benin.
The competition promises to be intense, with the clubs divided into two groups. Group A features Alodo Sports from Benin, Révélation from Burkina Faso, Etoile de Mandé from Mali, Star Makers from Ghana, and Clique Sport from Niger. Group B includes the defending champions Joseph Poté Academy, FC San Pedro of Ivory Coast, FC Mbarakoudu of Mali, ASTD of Cameroon, Sunsel of Nigeria, and Kalala Djougou of Benin.
In the group stage, teams will compete in a round-robin format, with the top two from each group advancing to the semi-finals. This format ensures that every match counts, and only the most consistent and competitive sides will progress to the knockout rounds.
The tournament not only provides a platform for young talents to showcase their skills but also serves as an important scouting ground for clubs and academies seeking the next generation of football stars. With clubs from multiple countries participating, the Tic2f also promotes cultural exchange and regional football development.
After several days of group-stage action, the tournament will culminate in a grand final on April 28, where the top teams will compete for the championship title. The Tic2f continues to be an important event in the youth football calendar, offering both competition and development opportunities for young players across the region.
