Riyadh, December 15, 2024 – In a historic and highly anticipated final, Brazilian football club Fluminense claimed victory in the inaugural MAHD Intercontinental Championship, defeating English football powerhouse Manchester City 2-1 in a thrilling match held yesterday at the world-class Mahd Sports Academy stadium in Riyadh. This groundbreaking tournament, which attracted top-tier youth football teams from across the globe, not only showcased the extraordinary talents of young footballers but also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s growing prominence on the global sports stage.
The final, which was a display of both skill and determination, captivated fans and observers alike. Fluminense, with its strong offensive and defensive strategies, managed to edge out Manchester City, who despite their best efforts, fell short in what was a closely contested battle. The victory marked a significant milestone for Fluminense, who now take home the coveted MAHD Intercontinental Championship trophy, alongside gold medals for their exceptional performance. Meanwhile, Manchester City players received silver medals, acknowledging their hard-fought journey to the final.
The event’s success was underscored by the words of Abdullah Hammad, CEO of Mahd Sports Academy, who personally presented the trophies and medals. Hammad expressed immense pride in the successful debut of the MAHD Intercontinental Championship, lauding the high level of competition and sportsmanship demonstrated by all the teams. He noted that the championship had fulfilled its primary objectives of providing young players with invaluable professional experience, fostering the next generation of football talent, and solidifying the Mahd Sports Academy as a premier platform for hosting major international sporting events.
Moreover, Hammad emphasized the significance of this event within the broader context of Saudi Vision 2030. He stated that the championship was a clear reflection of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing its sports sector, aiming to establish the Kingdom as a global hub for sports excellence. This vision was further reinforced by Saudi Arabia’s recent successful bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2034™, a milestone event that positions the nation at the forefront of international sports.
The MAHD Intercontinental Championship is poised to become a regular fixture on the global sports calendar, offering young athletes a unique opportunity to showcase their skills on an international stage while fostering cultural exchange and enhancing the Kingdom's growing influence in the world of sports. This event also serves as a catalyst for continued investments in sports infrastructure and youth development programs, aligning with Saudi Arabia's broader goals of social, cultural, and economic growth as envisioned in the ambitious Vision 2030 plan.
This inaugural edition is just the beginning, and the impact it leaves on the young players, the local community, and the international sports landscape is expected to reverberate for years to come.
