Football: U13 Paradise Cup |11 August 2023
Talenta Academia of Madagascar (Photo: Neil Sirame)
Talenta Academia set eyes on the U13 Paradise Cup
Madagascar-based Talenta Academia originating from the city of Toamasina have their eyes on the trophy of the second U13 Paradise Cup which began on Tuesday.
The Malagasy football academy arrived in the country on Monday August 7 and their U-17 team defeated local side Rangers FC 15-1 in a test match.
Their U-13 side, who displayed a good quality of football, were victorious 6-1 over Rangers FC in their Paradise Cup inaugural match.
Speaking to Sports NATION, president of the Talenta Academia, Muhamed Ali Joe, said last year at the first tournament there was no trophy, whereas this year, they will be battling stronger as the tournament has improved, with a trophy as reward for the best team of the tournament.
“It is interesting to come back as we have seen the Seychellois have improved since the last tournament and the players are enjoying the exchange,” said the Talenta Academia president who added that technical director Osama Haroun has made a positive impact on the country’s youth football since his arrival.
He said the young Malagasy players are very happy to have made the trip to Seychelles and the atmosphere within the team is very energetic.
“As you may know in Madagascar it is rare for these kids to have abroad experience and they mostly compete internally, and the moment they receive a chance to play abroad it is the best gift for them,”added Mr Joe.
He further added that the Talenta Academy will be very proud if any of the players get scouted by a local club as they know the Seychelles Premier League sides are keen on signing Malagasy players, especially with the likes of St Michel and clubs on Praslin and La Digue.
He also added that last year, he was led to believe that three players were to be signed by local clubs, but all talks went cold.
“This time, I hope at least two of my best players will be scouted,” added the club president, who also noted that their main intention is to lift the trophy at the end of the tournament.
Neil Sirame