U-16 International Dream Cup 2016 JAPAN Presented by JFA had its final day on 26 June in Tottori. The competition kicked off on 22 June. 

The U-16 Mali National Team faced the U-16 Hungary National Team for the title. In the 15th minute, Mali got a penalty but it seemed to be saved by the Hungary’s goalkeeper, but he was judged to have fouled and Mali got to retake the penalty. This time, Mali’s Hadji Drame scored the opening goal. After the opener, Mali continued to take control and scored 2 more goals. In the end, Mali won the match 3-0 against Hungary and got the title. 

With 5,200 fans, the U-16 Japan National Team vs. the U-16 Mexico National Team kicked off. Japan kept scoring goal after goal. In the 14th minute, their rush of goals started by Japan’s forward TANAHASHI Akito and the 1st half ended 3-0. In the 2nd half, defender HIRAKAWA Rei and forward MIYASHIRO Taisei, and the Tanahashi scored additional goals, and they boosted the excitement of the fans at the stadium. Japan beat Mexico 6-0 and finished the competition as runner-up. 

At the Awards Ceremony after the matches, medals and a champion cup were offered to Mali. MVP was given to Hadji Drame of the U-16 Mali National Team, Top Scorer was given to Tanahashi Akito of the U-16 Japan National Team.

Coaches' Comments

Jonas Kokou Komla, Coach (U-16 Mali National Team)
This team was launched 3 months ago and this is our first foreign trip. The players are very happy to come to Japan and are proud to be squad players. I think their mentality lead them to win the title. Japan is such a wonderful team with good technique, but I felt they had a lack of intensity. I think they will be stronger if they improve the intensity of their physical contact. Another factor is passion; football is the only way for Mali players to live, in fact many children in Mali want to be football players in the future. For us, football is the way to put food on the table in their families. 

Enrique Echeverria Perez, Coach (U-16 Mexico National Team)
Throughout the competition our players couldn’t keep their level of play, including the one against Japan and we ended up with disappointing results. However, I believe that this was a very good opportunity for our young players. We are satisfied with everything including the accommodation, food, match venue, and other management. I want to express my gratitude for all of the staff who worked for this competition.

U-16 International Dream Cup 2016 JAPAN Presented by JFA

Wed. 22 June 2016 - Sun. 26 June 2016
Tottori / Tottori Bird Stadium
This competition is four teams round-robin tournament

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