Sana'a: The Communications and Information Technology team emerged victorious in the Second President Martyr Saleh Al-Sammad Football Championship for ministries, authorities, and government institutions, securing the title after a gripping final against the Capital Secretariat team. The tournament, organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, concluded with a tense penalty shootout following a goalless draw in regular time, held at Al-Dhurafi Stadium in Sana'a.
According to Yemen News Agency, the event saw participation from 20 teams divided into five groups, competing over 15 days in a single round-robin format. The top team from each group advanced to the quarterfinals, along with the three best second-place teams. The tournament aimed to foster unity and camaraderie among government employees, with the Communications team ultimately claiming victory after defeating the Capital Secretariat team 6-5 on penalties.
The championship's second edition was not only a sporting event but also a tribute to the late President Saleh Al-Sammad, as articulated by Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, Nabeel Nasser. He emphasized that the tournament is a symbol of loyalty and remembrance of Al-Sammad's national vision. The Deputy Minister also highlighted the event's success in promoting institutional sports, which helps relieve employees from work pressures through fair competition.
Honoring the victorious teams and outstanding participants, the ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Ameen Jamaan, Secretary-General of the Local Council of the Capital Secretariat, and Dr. Ahmed Al-Mutawakel, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology for Financial Affairs. The Undersecretary dedicated the championship win to the communications sector employees, commending their excellence on the field and acknowledging the collective effort and support from the ministry's leadership.
The tournament's organization received praise for its discipline and technical level, with the Ministry of Youth and Sports being credited for hosting a well-coordinated event. The victorious Communications team was awarded the first-place trophy, gold medals, and a cash prize, while the runners-up, the Capital Secretariat team, received silver medals and a financial award. Individual accolades were also presented, with players such as Ali Khalil and Jalal Al-Qita' being recognized as top scorers.
Beyond football, the tournament included cultural competitions, with the Ministry of Finance team winning the accompanying events. Additionally, the Al-Aqsa team won the World Quds Day Championship for talented players, further highlighting the tournament's broad scope in fostering talent and unity across government institutions.