ASPIRE Teams Gain Experience Against FC Copenhagen
ASPIRE ’91 and ’94 Put Up Strong Performances Against Danish Side
ASPIRE ’91 and ’94 teams put in impressive performances against a strong FC Copenhagen side, despite losing to one of the best European teams who provide many of the players for the Danish national side.
In the first match between ASPIRE ’91 and FC Copenhagen the players performed to a high-level, gaining the admiration of the Danish delegation, and were strong competition for the visitors in spite of the clear size difference, as they were beaten 1-0.
In the second game, the ASPIRE ’91 team played the better football and controlled the game from the start, winning 2-0.
ASPIRE ’94 also played two games, against FC Copenhagen Under 15’s. The ASPIRE side showed fantastic individual skill to the delight of the visitors and spectators but eventually lost 2-0 to a stronger and taller FC Copenhagen side. The result didn’t reflect the real level of the ASPIRE ’94 performance, as they showed a lot of intricate skill and dazzled everyone.
The second game was much the same, as FC Copenhagen capitalised on their strength and height, again winning 2-0.
Mogens Stig Rasmussen said: “In our two games against ASPIRE ’94 both sides showed a lot of artistic talent and skill. The ASPIRE ’94 side were organised but they made a couple of mistakes in defense which cost them in both games. The score-line didn’t mean anything though, as ASPIRE were really good and they have many excellent elements in all areas across the pitch. We played against a very strong team which meant that we had to raise our game considerably during the match. The physical strength of our players helped to make the difference.”
“We were amazed by the ASPIRE facilities, and I would say I have never seen anything as impressive anywhere in the world,” he added.
FC Copenhagen’s Under 19 coach, Jonny Feldbaek Larsen said: “First I want to say the organisation and playing style of ASPIRE ’91 during both games was impressive and they performed better than the Qatari team when they played Japan in the World Cup Qualifier which we watched in the stadium. I envisage that the many of the ASPIRE ‘91 students could become the main element of the Qatari team. They have great qualifications, good skills and a high level of technique.”
“We just won the first game and they confirmed what I said about them when they went on to win 2-0 in the second match,” he added.
About ASPIRE’s facilities, Laursen said: “I am not the only one that will say this, but ASPIRE is unique. Everyone who visits will say the same thing. We can’t compare it with anything in the world, and frankly in Denmark we haven’t got facilities like it.”
ASPIRE opened in 2004 to identify and develop sporting talent across Qatar and the surrounding region. 23 Student Athletes were the first to graduate from ASPIRE Academy in June this year. The academy is also a focus for the world-renowned sporting culture within the country.
