Bari sets the standard

The 2001 UEFA-CAF Meridian Cup in Bari, Italy, set the standards of friendship and harmony for the 2003 edition in Egypt to follow.

Cultural exchange
While Europe were convincing winners two years ago, beating Africa by 35 points to eight, the real success story was in the realisation of the Meridian Cup's objectives - promoting the exchanges of cultures and offering young footballers a unique learning experience.

Making headlines
Among the names who benefited two years ago and are now making headlines in Europe are Portgual's Hugo Viana and the Czech Republic's Tomás Jun, both of whom have now gone on to play in the UEFA Champions League and earn international recognition at a higher level.

United front
"These social contacts are the living illustration of what the Meridian Project is all about - the promotion of cultural exchanges which help all of us to live, work and play together in an atmosphere where racism has no place," said Antonio Matarresse, chairman of the Meridian Project Board after the 2001 event.

Innovative approach
The event two years ago in Bari marked the first time the competition was played on a continental basis, with the four European representatives playing each of the four African nations once. The points gained were added to the continent's total, ultimately leading to Europe's victory.

Spanish pride
In all, the European teams won ten matches and drew five. Nigeria earned Africa's only win by beating Italy 1-0 on the final day. Spain were the best of the European contingent and were honoured for the achievement, a feat which can be seen as a successful defence of the title they won outright under the old format in 1999.

Joint venture
The Meridian Project, which paved the way for the Meridian Cup, was a joint venture by UEFA and CAF agreed in 1996. Since then, UEFA has encouraged its member associations to forge links with individual African nations and support them in football-related areas.