[SOURCE: Riaz Ahmed]
“Football competitions held at academy and school levels are the backbone and foundation of this sport throughout the world. Unfortunately in Pakistan, this vital aspect of football had been ignored for many years. The efforts of Karachi United Foundation directors Taha Alizai, Imran Ali, Adeel Rizki, chief organiser Riaz Ahmed, and head coach Arshad Jamal in establishing a Karachi-wide youth league is a laudable step. The U16 teams representing Defence centre, Lyari centre, North Nazimabad centre, North Karachi centre, and Korangi centre taking part in this home-away format tournament had been undergoing vigorous training under pro coaches for last 4 months in preparation for the KU Youth Football League. This tournament has allowed the young players to take part in a healthy competitive environment where they fine tune their football skills and help them develop into future professionals as they keep on playing when growing older.”
These views were stated by former Pakistan international Saleem Patni, part of the 1991 SAF Games gold medal winning team, as he inaugurated the KU Youth Football League as chief guest for the first game at the National Soccer Academy Ground in Paposh (North Nazimabad). Also present for the occasion were league administrator Riaz Ahmed, Secretary Central Zone Referees Khalid Majeed, KUFC head coach Arshad Jamal, formal international players Farid Majeed, Mohsin Shah and Syed Sultan Ali, SSGC captain Muhammad Shahnawaz, Farrukh Riaz and other guests.
The inaugural game of the competition saw North Nazimabad defeat North Karachi in a one-sided affair as North Nazimabad centre won the game a resounding 5-0 for the first 3 points of the KU Youth Football League. Goals were scored by Muhammad Ubaid (5th minute and 37th minute), Muhammad Umari (17th minute), Noman Tahir (47th minute) and Khayam Rashid (53rd minute). Senior national referee Habib Ullah monitored the game while match commissioner was Khalid Majeed.
On Sunday, Malir Centre and Korangi Centre will clash at 4 PM at Jam Stadium in Malir.