Football

Somalia President fetes winners of the Inter-State football tournament

Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud awarding the football team of Galmudug State that won the competition on February 5, 2024. (Photo: Villa Somalia)

By Hassan Mohamed | Tuesday, February 6, 2024

President Hassan Sheikh handed over the trophy of the best team to Galmudug State.

In a colourful ceremony held at Villa Somalia Presidential Palace in Mogadishu on Monday, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, flanked by the Minister of Youth and Sports Mohamed Bare Mohamud and the Somalia Football Federation President Ali Abdi Mohamed, alias Ali Shiine, handed over the trophy of the best team to Galmudug State.

The officials also awarded medals to Hirshabelle State players for their second position.

President Mohamud took a moment to extend his congratulations and appreciation to all the teams that participated in the tournament. "I wish to congratulate Galmudug and Hirshabelle State, as well as all the other states that took part in the tournament. You all did very well and competed, and we want to recognize your excellent participation and your sportsmanship spirit,” he said.

Speaking about the significance of sports, President Mohamud emphasised their role in fostering unity and peace.

"Sports bring people together and encourage unity and peace. Sports are a sign of goodness because they are associated with a healthy body and mind, and as such, they are good for health. I encourage all the Somali people to engage in sporting activities because it is good for their health,” he added.

Munaasabadda xiritaanka tartanka dowlad goboleedyada dalka iyo gobolka Banaadir oo ka dhacday Madaxtooyada Qaranka ayaa Madaxweynaha JFS Mudane Xasan Sheekh Maxamuud waxa uu koobka gudoonsiiyay xulka Kubadda cagta Dowlad-goboleedka Galmudug oo ku guuleystay Tartankaas. pic.twitter.com/TgEB1abAgB
— Villa Somalia (@TheVillaSomalia) February 5, 2024

The ceremony also honoured individual achievements, with awards presented to outstanding players, coaches, and referees. Ahmed Hassan Kafi was recognized as the best referee, while Galmudug State's coach Ahmed Tahlil Ali and goalkeeper Abdisalan Ali Abdulle received accolades for their contributions. Jubaland’s Bakari Shufle Yusuf claimed the top scorer title, and the prestigious player of the tournament award went to Dini Mohamed Dini of Galmudug State.

In the aftermath of the tournament, Mogadishu buzzed with excitement as fans gathered to witness the gripping matches. Galmudug State supporters, in particular, continued their celebrations for days, marking their historic victory in Somalia's beloved national sport, football.