Zoudweogo: The 4th edition of the ‘Maracana Peace Tournament’ concluded with Avantage FC clinching victory against Rabiiga FC, securing a narrow 1-0 win at the ‘Ka La Manga’ regional stadium in Manga.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the final match unfolded under heavy rainfall, captivating an enthusiastic crowd as Avantage FC and Rabiiga FC competed in two intense 45-minute halves. Avantage FC’s triumph marked their first-ever trophy in the tournament, rewarding the team with a set of jerseys, a ball, gold medals, and a monetary prize of 75,000 CFA francs. Rabiiga FC, as the runner-up, received jerseys, a ball, silver medals, and 50,000 CFA francs.
The event, chaired by the High Commissioner of Zoundweogo, Julien Ouedraogo, underscored the role of sport in fostering peace and social cohesion. He commended Lucien Bouda, the tournament’s promoter, for organizing four consecutive editions and encouraged the continuation of this initiative that unites and empowers youth.
Asseta Ouedraogo, representing the sponsor, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the unifying power of sport, which motivated the sponsor’s commitment to the event.
Lucien Bouda highlighted the tournament’s broader objectives, stating that beyond sports, it serves as a platform for dialogue and unity among political, religious, and youth groups, who are often divided. He asserted that sport offers a means to communicate, understand, and work towards sustainable peace in Burkina Faso.
Under the theme “Committed Youth, Consolidated Peace,” the tournament engaged 16 teams and attracted administrative authorities, traditional leaders, partners, and local populations, reaffirming sport’s significance in community development.