Ethiopian Airlines at West Ham

Some 640 African-originating participants, wearing the colours of 20 African countries, provided a colourful warm up to the World Cup in an event sponsored by Ethiopian Airlines at the West Ham Memorial Grounds.

All the teams consist of 11 players aged 18 years and up who originate from the respective countries,  although most of the players now live in the UK.  The referees are from the FA. 

For the first time this year too the Tournament includes a Youth Side.  Countries represented in the under 15 years of age category include Zanzibar, Nigeria, Somalia and Morocco.

The tournament is being out held in association with The Metropolitan Police, Newham London, Essex County Football Association, Let’s Kick Racism out of Football and the Terence Higgins Trust.  Entertainment activities included food stalls, drinks, crafts and music from renowned local African DJs and artists.  The Final is next Saturday (14 June) but Ethiopia and defending champions Ghana are already out. www.flyethiopian.com

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