Orange Teen Plays In World Youth Soccer Cup In Europe

Bella Antonucci, 13 of Orange, was one of 14 girls to play for FC Connecticut youth soccer club in the U 13 girls category at the Gothia World Youth Cup in Sweden, July 18 to 23. There were 48 teams in their bracket from 9 different countries.
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Gothia Cup is the world’s largest and most international youth football tournament. Each year 1,600 teams from 80 nations take part in this tournament. Since the start of the tournament in 1975, almost one million players from 141 countries have participated.

It is the teams and participants from around the world that make the tournament unique. A meeting place for the worlds youth, irrespective of religion, skin color, or nationality, with football as a common denominator.

FC Connecticut reached the A playoffs after finishing 2nd in their bracket. They lost in the quarterfinals after a spirited comeback late in the game to tie KFV Segeberg (Germany) only to lose on penalty kicks. Antonucci had a goal and multiple assists during the tournament. FC Connecticut scored a total of 19 goals while only conceding 6.

In addition to the Gothia Cup the girls were able to experience two friendly games in Copenhagen, Denmark and were able to interact and bond with Danish players. Bella will play for CFC United’s NPL team in the fall.