The Allianz Riviera opened its doors this Saturday for the regional final of the Danone Nations Cup. Under a scorching heat, the 200 young participants, who came from all over the region, gave it their all in front of parents who were at the edge of their seats. What an atmosphere.
Near the stadium, the kids instantly got into the spirit. A large banner attached to the facility’s facade reads “you must live your dreams.” This dream is within reach for these determined youngsters, who are ready to give everything on the field in hopes of qualifying for the grand national final.
It’s almost ten o’clock when the coaches try to capture their young protégés’ attention one last time before entering the field. Attentive, with concentrated faces, the players of Gazélec Nice are all gathered around the coach to listen to instructions. The focus is on stress management, positioning, and above all, enjoyment.
Yet, Louis doesn’t seem fazed by the stakes. Having played for two years with AS Saint Rémoise, this is his first experience of Allianz Riviera. His joy is visible in his eyes, just like in his teammates’, delighted to be part of such an event. A phrase frequently heard is “it’s so cool.” They’re here to have fun, and it shows. Between laughing, teasing, and playing ball in the stadium corridors, they’re savoring the moment.
Respect above all
On the field, players give their all for 12 minutes. With firm tackles, desperate returns, and offensive runs, they don’t hold back. They’re truly spirited, constantly moving to support a struggling teammate. There’s no room for ego, individuality, or disrespect. The instructions are clear: referees can give a yellow card, which means a temporary suspension for “misconduct.”
To motivate players to remain courteous on the pitch, the Fondaction du football, the main partner of the Danone Nations Cup, awards a trophy to the team deemed the most sportsmanlike on the green. The scores are given by the referee trio after each match to Guillaume, a member of the Fondaction.
In the end, Antibes-Fontonne is the happy winner of the trophy. The reward comes with a signed jersey from OGC Nice for the club’s showcase and a ball given to each player.
“Parents during the week, supporters on the weekend”
Families arrived early this morning to cheer on their children, coming well-prepared. Dressed in black t-shirts with the inscription “parents during the week, supporters on the weekend,” the parents of the young Antibes players didn’t hesitate to raise their voices at every risky play or controversial phase.
That’s the case for the father of little Thomas, a player for Toulon. With the excitement, pressure, and the stakes of a tournament final spot, he can’t stay still. Clutching the railing, he continually encourages “his players” with grand gestures. At a corner, he announces a headed goal from the stands. The corner is played, and the ball is powerfully headed into the net, leading to euphoria. He runs all over, shouting, “Toulon is in the regional tournament final!” A few minutes later, he erupts once more after his son’s victory in the final, which means they are in the national final this Sunday.
One thing is certain: the competition is fierce both on and off the field, and there are no free passes.
Morgan Piot
