Banyoles, Spain – Elleve Soccer of Brazil emerged victorious at the Pre-MICFootball tournament on Tuesday, defeating Club Esportiu Banyoles in a tense penalty shootout following a scoreless draw at the Estadi Miquel Coromina i Moretó. The competition served as a warm-up for the 24th edition of the MICFootball (MIC–Mediterranean International Cup), which kicks off tomorrow and will be held across 45 municipalities in the province of Girona.
The Pre-MICFootball tournament brought together six cadet (U15 and U16) teams, blending local clubs with international competition. Participating squads included Oakville Jaguars Soccer Academy (Canada), PSA Monmouth (United States), Elleve Soccer (Brazil), and Wakatake (Japan), alongside the host teams, Club Esportiu Banyoles and Atlètic Club Banyoles. The event is increasingly recognized as a key precursor to the larger MICFootball tournament.
The final match itself was a tightly contested affair, remaining deadlocked at 0-0 through regulation time. The outcome ultimately hinged on the drama of a penalty shootout, where Iago Morado, the goalkeeper for Elleve Soccer, proved to be the hero, saving the decisive penalty to secure the championship for the Brazilian side. The Pre-MICFootball provides a valuable platform for young players to gain experience in a competitive international environment.
The tournament’s success underscores the growing appeal of the MICFootball as a global showcase for youth talent. The Mediterranean International Cup, now in its 24th year, attracts teams from around the world, offering a unique blend of sporting competition, cultural exchange, and the promotion of positive values. This year’s event is expected to draw hundreds of teams and thousands of young athletes to the Costa Brava region of Catalonia.
The closing ceremony of the Pre-MICFootball was attended by Miquel Noguer, the Mayor of Banyoles, and Jordi Congost, the city’s sports councilor, both of whom participated in the presentation of trophies. Their presence highlighted the local community’s support for the tournament and its role in promoting youth sports.
The MICFootball tournament, known for having hosted future stars like Lamine Yamal, Cole Palmer, Rodri, Marcus Rashford, Pedri, and Dani Carvajal early in their careers, continues to be a proving ground for aspiring footballers. The tournament’s organizers emphasize that it’s more than just a competition; it’s an experience that fosters friendship and provides young players with valuable professional exposure.
Looking ahead, the 24th edition of the MICFootball will be held from Thursday, April 2nd, through Sunday, April 5th, across 45 municipalities in the province of Girona. The tournament will be broadcast on various television platforms and available for streaming on the MICFootball TV platform, offering fans worldwide the opportunity to follow the action. Finals are scheduled to take place in Palamós and Figueres.
The MICFootball has reached a significant milestone this year, with the upcoming tournament marking the participation of 100,000 players throughout its history. This achievement underscores the tournament’s enduring legacy and its continued growth as a premier international youth football event.
The Pre-MIC tournament’s conclusion sets the stage for a week of intense competition at the main MICFootball event. Teams will be vying for the championship in various age groups, and fans can expect a high level of skill and excitement. The tournament’s organizers have promised a memorable experience for both participants and spectators.
For those interested in following the MICFootball tournament, detailed schedules, venues, and broadcast information can be found on the official MICFootball website: https://micfootball.com/en/home-english/. Updates and highlights will as well be available on the tournament’s social media channels.
The success of Elleve Soccer Brasil at the Pre-MICFootball serves as a compelling preview of the talent and competition that will be on display at the main MICFootball tournament. As the event gets underway, all eyes will be on the young players as they strive to craft their mark on the international stage.
