Baidui Cup: A New Global Stage for Youth Football in Beijing

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 August 2025 – The 42nd “Baidui Cup” Football Tournament kicked off amidst rain on August 8^th, bringing a refreshing chill to the young participants and reigniting the football spirit in Beijing, often referred to as the “Dual Olympic City.”

Observing the energetic kids at the tournament, 51-year-old football legend Yang Chen was reminded of his competitive days over four decades ago.

– Advertisement –

“I treasure those thrilling moments spent alongside my teammates, striving for excellence and chasing victory. This marks the beginning of my dream,” Yang, a Beijing native and participant in the tournament’s first editions, shared.

The Baidui Cup, a youth football tournament in Beijing, was launched in 1984 with 112 teams and has now expanded to over 1,000 teams in recent years.

This year’s 42nd Baidui Cup spans from August 8 to 17. “An increasing number of children are participating in this cherished tournament, learning from one another and enhancing their skills through play. Their enthusiasm showcases the dynamic football culture in this region,” Yang remarked.

Throughout the tournament, young athletes competed on multiple fields in six districts of Beijing, cheering from their families regardless of the summer rain or sun.

“The Baidui Cup is the highlight of my summer vacation. It’s like a grand football festival,” said 10-year-old Li Jinglin, taking part for his fifth time. “I started as a left-wing midfielder at age five. Two years ago, when our goalkeeper was injured, I switched positions to defender and have remained in that role. I aim to help our team achieve victory.”

Nine-year-old forward Wang Yibo, with support from his family, made his Baidui Cup debut after two years of football training.

– Advertisement –

“Initially, I hoped for Wang to improve his fitness through weekly training. Eventually, I recognized his individual motivation to advance. I believe football will always play a significant role in his life,” shared Wang’s mother, Guo Lele.

As the tournament’s popularity continues to grow, more talents from various cities in China and beyond are joining this youth football celebration.

This year, Coach Ma Zhiqiang brought his team from Rongjiang County in Guizhou Province to take part in the Baidui Cup for the first time. Rongjiang is celebrated for the Village Super League, known as Cun Chao.

“All my players come from Chemin Primary School in Rongjiang. Although I’ve only been coaching there for 10 months, I can already see their determination and eagerness to play. Undeniably, Cun Chao has significantly influenced them, and they dream of showcasing their talent in front of their local supporters someday,” noted Ma.

Kids from mountainous regions often exhibit strong leg muscles but need to refine their skills in comparison to young players from Beijing’s professional clubs. Nevertheless, the Rongjiang team impressed many with their performance at the Baidui Cup.

Ma highlighted, “My team adhered closely to our game plan. They focused on defense in the first half and leveraged their physical strength for counter-attacks in the second half. We’re excited to have secured several victories.”

Nine-year-old Lin Qihang, captain of the Rongjiang youth team, practices for over three hours daily after school. He commented, “Football has taught me self-discipline. Our visit to Beijing is an opportunity to learn from other teams and experience a broader world.”

Traveling thousands of miles, 11-year-old Christiano Konono from Zimbabwe participated in the Baidui Cup alongside his teammates from Jadel Football Academy, a youth club in Beijing established by former professional player Walter Musanhu in 2019.

Jadel Football Academy fielded five age-group teams for this year’s Baidui Cup, comprising about 150 players from China, Zimbabwe, Japan, and other regions. This winter, Musanhu plans to take his Chinese players to Zimbabwe to immerse them in African football culture.

“I have a deep appreciation for the kids, and they require encouragement. I want them to achieve accomplishments beyond what I ever realized as a player and create lasting memories,” Musanhu expressed.

Reflecting on the Baidui Cup’s expansion, Gao Jun, secretary of the Beijing Football Association, stated, “As the tournament garners recognition, we will continue to host it annually. There’s no reason to stop now.”

Clearly, the Baidui Cup has emerged as a pivotal youth football tournament, driven by the enthusiasm of younger generations and the support of their families. Nearly all elite players from Beijing have showcased their talents in the Baidui Cup, including former national team players Shao Jiayi and Liu Ying.

“A journey of over 40 years is no small accomplishment. I hope more young athletes can shine in the Baidui Cup and contribute to the development of Chinese football and its related sectors,” said Shao, who currently coaches Qingdao West Coast in the Chinese Super League.

Hashtag: #BaiduiCup

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Powered by WPeMatico

– Advertisement –