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IKOLI VICTOR
Doha
A spirited and determined Qatar National Football team played out an entertaining match against a German select side from Discover Football but lost 5-3 at the Women's Sports Committee football pitch at Aspire Zone here on Monday.
The match was held to commemorate the 'Qatar-Germany 2017 Year of Culture' and was organised by the 'German Football Ambassador' in partnership with the embassy of Germany and Goethe-Institut Gulf Region.
Qatar scored first in the opening minutes, thanks to a brilliant team play and coordination. A string of passes was made from the centre circle until the final ball was slammed into the net. The Germans responded with two-quick fire goals to lead 2-1. The Qatari team paraded a youthful side with the youngest member of the squad being a 13-year-old and a 25-year-old being the eldest. For the Germans the average age was 26.
By the end of the first half, the German select side led 4-2 and after a tough second period both the teams managed a goal each to end the friendly tie 5-3.
Speaking to Qatar Tribune, Peter Ziegler, Deputy Head of the German Embassy in Doha, said:"We thought it is a good idea to bring a female team in Doha because we have a lot of talents that are not in the spotlight and we want to encourage both teams to continue for higher goals."
"We had exhibitions, concerts and so sports is a good means as well to show how the two countries work together in marking the cultural year.
"I was surprised to see how quick the Qatar's ladies were running especially in the first half. So we had a match with a lot of goals as well. I think they were quite equal to the German team," the envoy added.
Gloria Kwalbe, Qatar coach, said,"This is a surprising match for me because the preparation was short. I didn't expect the performance from the girls. Majority of the girls was nurtured by me when they were younger so they performed really good.
"I am impressed with the team despite the defeat, I see great future in the girls. Last week we conceded five goals against the UK army team but today's display gives one hope that the future is bright for Qatari women team," Gloria added.
Paula Klinger, Discover Football coach, said:"The match was great and it was a really even game. There was a lot of fighting and passion from the ladies. It seemed like everybody had fun and we saw many goals. Normally this exchange won't happen but because we play football, we met on Sunday and had dinner together, talked about why we play the game and got to know each other better."
'Qatar-Germany 2017 Year of Culture'is a year-long programme designed to deepen understanding between nations through the mutual exchange of arts, culture, heritage and sport, developed by Qatar Museums in partnership with the Goethe-Institut Gulf Region, the German Embassy in Doha and the Embassy of Qatar in Germany.
