The best female footballers in the UAE were back in action at the weekend in the IFA September Tournament.
The event saw eight teams, including the UAE U18 National Team, come together in a bid to sharpen bodies and minds ahead of the start to the competitive season.
In the Trophy final, IFA Phoenix stormed to victory with a narrow 1-0 victory over Sevens, whilst in the Cup final, player of the tournament, Millie, helped Leoni FC edge out another IFA side by two goals to one.
Event organiser and Head of women's football at IFA Sport, Jess Prelle, was delighted with how the tournament had gone.
"The IFA September Tournament was a great start to the season, testing the new womens league venue and introducing new teams to the events.
Matches were competitive with some tight results and even a penalty shoot out in the semi finals.
It was particularly great to see traditional teams that have been competing for years alongside newly formed teams and of course the UAE U18 National Team Players."
The women's game in the UAE has experienced a huge surge in popularity in recent years, with academies such as IFA Sport leading the way by setting up specialist girls teams and leagues. Prelle firmly believes that initiatives such as these have been key to growing the game.
"We are proud to be working alongside the UAE FA and Womens Football Committee to keep promoting and improving the sport amongst female players in the UAE – Girls and women ages 10 and up now have a regular outlet to compete in matches with the upcoming IFA leagues."
The Women's League, which is held on Wednesdays at Jebel Ali School will kick off on the September 27th. The Girls equivalent will take place every Wednesday at Sunmarke, beginning October 5th.
Any interested girls and women can still join in and are more than welcome to get in touch on jess@ifasport.com