KAFO Academy, run by former Tottenham and West Ham striker Frederic Kanoute, won in the inaugural Youth Football League Dubai tournament while Arabian Strikers clinched the Bowl trophy.

The one-day tournament attracted 14 strong sides across the UAE as well as from abroad as they battled for glory in the event, presented by AFLeagues.

Dubai-based KAFO Academy did just enough to overcome GC United 1-0 while Arabian Strikers came out on top against Fujairah’s Athletic Sports Academy.

With matches closely fought and more than 70 goals scored, Anthony Stonehouse, Technical Director at AFLeagues was impressed with what he saw.

“We were extremely happy to host our very first Youth Tournament here in Dubai and can’t wait for the official Youth Leagues to commence in September,” he said.

“We believe that providing a neutral football league platform gives the local academies the opportunity to play in a fair yet competitive environment that will allow players to develop their skills and compete against other academies of similar ability. We are convinced that the upcoming leagues will be a welcome addition to the Dubai football scene.”

Their 7-a-side youth football league will begin in September. For more information, visit www.afleagues.com