After a 2-year hiatus due to the pandemic, Strive Football Group was finally able to bring its PSG Academy USA and PSG Academy Geneva teams to the Paris Saint-Germain Academy World Cup in May 2022. With over 11 countries represented, the 4-day event organized by Paris Saint-Germain FC, united youth athletes from around the world to showcase their skills in Paris and compete for glory. It was a unique experience for Strive’s teams to play matches against countries from 4 continents, encounter new cultures, and discover the authentic experiences during the event.
Amongst the experiences was the opening ceremony at the Parc des Princes Stadium with a speech from President Nasser Al-Khelaifi, a lap of honor for the final match of the season in front of thousands of fans, coming within touching distance of the PSG star players, a guided tour of Paris, and a celebratory closing ceremony at the iconic Cirque Bormann.
Strive Football Group were treated to the exceptional chance to be a part of history, as they met international star Kylian Mbappé for his iconic photoshoot at the Parc des Princes. Players from PSG Academies in the U.S. and Geneva were invited to pose with Mbappé at his press conference announcing his contract extension with PSG!
From a competitive standpoint, each country came prepared to make an impact, and Strive’s teams were no different. Matches were intense and played in front of vocal fans who travelled with their respective delegations from around the world, encouraging and chanting local songs.
Each team was able to play their final match at the Parc des Princes, and although PSG USA came up against top opponents, the U11 team finished strongly and won 3rd place. However, it was in the female division that Strive Football Group showed their flare, with two PSG USA teams as well as PSG Academy Geneva finishing in the top 4.
Fortunately, the PSG Academy World Cup is an annual event, and Strive Football Group will offer these memorable experiences to its PSG Academy players again next year!