It was beautiful today at the Football Association of Montenegro Camp, where the youngest football players from the biggest European clubs competed.
Competed and socialized.
It was a true sports festival, a football festival, as the second "Matija Šarkić" memorial tournament was intended to be, dedicated to the untimely passing of the Montenegrin goalkeeper.
The Montenegro and Slovenia U14 national teams, as well as Tottenham, Inter, Aston Villa, Partizan, Wolverhampton and Antwerp, graced the event.
The memorial was opened by the President of the Football Association of Montenegro, Dejan Savićević, and Matija's twin brother, Oliver.
The second day of the Memorial is scheduled for Saturday, as well as the placement matches - the tournament winner will be determined.
"On behalf of the family, I thank the Football Association for their endless support. Not only since we lost Matija, but from the first day we started wearing the colors of this great nation. Thank you to all the friends and sponsors who also helped," said Oliver Šarkić in an emotional speech.
"This year we are proud to be here, in the heart of Montenegrin football. A place we started coming to at the same age as these guys are today. We wouldn't be here today without one man, whose idea this was all about. Just a few months after we lost Matija, my brother Danilo had the idea to create a tournament in honor of Matija. The first edition was held at the British School in Brussels, where he currently works as the director of football. However, the goal was always to bring him here, home. Not only for Matija, but also for people to discover our Montenegro, as well as for our people to get the opportunity to see future football stars. I am sure Matija is looking at his older brother with pride. I know Matija is looking at us from heaven with his biggest smile. Thank you to everyone here today. I wish you all the best in the next two days and in your future careers."
Opening the tournament, FSCG President Dejan Savićević emphasized:
"The memorial character of the tournament reminds us of the importance of preserving the memory of a man whose life and work left a deep mark on our sport and society. Matija and his legacy will always have a special place among all football fans in Montenegro. I especially welcome all the young participants. Use every match as an opportunity to learn. Show respect for your opponents and enjoy the game."
In Group A, first place was won by Montenegro, who were defeated by Antwerp 2-0 at the start, then defeated Tottenham 2-1, and finally Aston Villa 3-0. In Group B, first place was taken by Partizan, ahead of Slovenia, Inter and Wolverhampton.
Tomorrow, Montenegro will play Slovenia and Partizan will play Tottenham in the semifinals.
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