Baku, October 31, 2025 – The Europe Today: On October 30, another edition of the “Friendship Cup” mini-football tournament was held, bringing together boys and girls aged 10–11 and 12–13 from orphanages across the country. The event aims to support the physical and psychological development of children while fostering team spirit, self-confidence, and social interaction.
The tournament was attended by Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and Founder and Head of the IDEA Public Union; Arzu Aliyeva, Head of Baku Media Center; and Alena Aliyeva, who watched the matches and interacted warmly with the young participants.
Organized by the Association of Football Federations of Azerbaijan (AFFA), the competition featured teams representing Orphanages No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3 in Baku, and Orphanage No. 4 in Ganja, competing under the names “Shahinlar,” “Birlik,” “Zafar,” and “Kapaz,” respectively, in both age categories. The matches were marked by high enthusiasm, teamwork, and sportsmanship, with children and spectators alike sharing in the joy and excitement of the games.
One of the most touching moments of the event was when Leyla Aliyeva, Arzu Aliyeva, and Alena Aliyeva expressed support for all participating teams, engaged in heartfelt conversations with the children, and took commemorative photos with them. They wished success to the young athletes and emphasized the importance of holding such tournaments regularly and on a wider scale to promote children’s wellbeing and inclusion.
At the closing ceremony, the winning teams in both age categories were awarded diplomas, medals, and cups, while the second- and third-place teams also received medals and certificates in recognition of their participation and sportsmanship.
Participants, educators, and organizers alike noted that the “Friendship Cup” has a positive impact on children’s confidence and social integration, helping to create lasting friendships and meaningful experiences. They expressed their gratitude for the ongoing commitment to such social initiatives.
First launched in May 2025, the “Friendship Cup” mini-football tournament has now become a cherished tradition, aiming not only to encourage a healthy and active lifestyle among children in social service institutions but also to facilitate their integration into society through sports and teamwork.
