Life of Guangzhou - Expats Win the Opener of GZIAFT

When foreigners play football against Chinese university students in GZ, who gets the upper hand? Pop along to Guangzhou "University Town" on Saturday afternoons in December to find out. [Special: Chinese Students vs. Foreigners, Amateur Football Tournament]

The 1st Guangzhou International Amateur Football Tournament (GZIAFT) kicked off last Saturday (December 1) at South China Normal University (SCNU) in southern Guangzhou with around three hundred watching the opening game.

The event is co-organized by www.lifeofguangzhou.com and the New Oriental School, with patronage by Red Bull, Casio and Hooley's. The event involves three 7-aside games between three overseas teams and their student rivals from local hosting universities each Saturday afternoon from December 1 - 15.

[More photos of the Game]

Foreign league leaders league win opener 2:1

Pub-based Paddy Field (PF), present leaders of the Guangzhou Foreigners' League, fielded a strong line-up against the young home team, SCNU, during the first match.

The overseas visitors controlled the game with their strength, team-work and aerial prowess. They took the lead with a low shot early in the first half. Perseverant SCNU challenged with diligent running and long shots. Their captain scored an equalizer.

In the second half, PF kept SCNU pegged-back with strong interception, flank attacks and overwhelming aerial power. SCNU, became increasingly worn and defensive, having to rely on their brilliant goal-keeper to stop PF.

Eventually PF's forward Alex beat the helpless SCNU keeper with the winning header. Both sides took the game seriously, with some heavy tackling and fouls but a friendly atmosphere and mutual respect was maintained.

Cheering girls' add spice

During the 25-minute break, Chinese girls from six universities (including Guangdong University of Foreign Studies and Guangzhou University) showed up. They performed various dances to music in shining, glamorous dresses, attracting the attention, cheers and applause of spectators.

GUT defend Chinese student's hopes

A Chinese or foreign side will win the tournament so the Guangdong University of Technology (GUT), stronger than SCNU, cannot afford to lose to the skillful Club Istanbul in this Saturday afternoons decisive tie.

Final thoughts on the first day

Spectators and players all found the event interesting and enjoyable. A sun- soaked pitch, a cool breeze, athletic men and pretty girls, a chance to socialize with old friends and make new ones. All these ingredients fused to make a memorable day. Come and join us this Saturday!

[Click here to read the story in Chinese]

(Written by Ronald Li and photographed by Kaisheng Lu)

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