Aigner hails Meridian experience

Mutual understanding
In his editorial column in the latest edition of the UEFA publication uefadirect, Mr Aigner said that the tournament for Under-17 teams helped nurture mutual understanding between young people of different cultures.

Point of comparison
"The Meridian Cup ... provides a useful point of comparison between the youth football played on two continents, and provides a basis for evaluating the physical, tactical and technical development of each," said Mr Aigner.

Unique experience
"Nevertheless, in these meetings, the competitive element is not the first priority. The main point is that it is a unique experience for these young players who, for a few days, have the opportunity to mingle not only with footballers of their own age from other countries ... but also with youngsters from other continents, a mutually enriching experience for all concerned.

Other cultures
"This time spent together is above all an opportunity to experience other cultures, other customs, and it should help to foster mutual understanding among these young people from different parts of the world. In this way, the Meridian Cup also makes a contribution to the fight against racism."

Valuable lessons
The UEFA CEO also described the Meridian Project partnership between Europe and Africa as a two-way co-operation. "The European youth players come home with greater cultural awareness and no doubt also valuable lessons for their footballing careers," said Mr Aigner.

Furthering development
"At other levels, too, the co-operation is a two-way street," he added. "By making their knowledge available to their African partners, the Europeans also further their own development, as, in order to progress, it is necessary to confront ever more formidable opponents. And, at the end of the day, the sport of football itself also benefits from this co-operation."