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The Danone Nations Cup World Final took Wembley Stadium by Storm!

25,000 people travelled to Wembley Stadium this weekend to support the world’s biggest international football tournament for 10-12 year olds. Over 400 children from around the world descended into Wembley Stadium to participate in the World Final of the Danone Nations Cup and catch a glimpse of international legend, Zinedine Zidane.

International legend and Danone Nations Cup Ambassador, Zinédine Zidane, cheered the teams throughout the afternoon with Ambassadors and former and present players John Scales (UK), Tom Ince (UK) and Gheorghe Hagi (Romania). During the tense final between France and Brazil, it was 0-0 at full time which took the game into penalties. Team France were crowned the international winners as they beat Brazil on penalties (3:1), and were presented with their winning trophy by Zidane at the official tournament prize ceremony.

Amongst the 32 national teams, Team England showcased their footballing talents in front of lively home crowd and beat Russia an impressive 3-0 to clinch 9th place. Ireland showcased a high calibre of talent during the knock-out stages and played Japan in the semi-final to scoop 4th place. Over the afternoon everyone had the chance to play on the pitch and experience the electric Wembley atmosphere in front of footballing legends.

The event, which was hosted by British Olympic sprinter Iwan Thomas and TV presenter Abi Griffiths and included a special performance from Britain’s Got Talent winners Diversity, football freestyler demonstrations and a giant zorbing competition which took place on the pitch.

Zinédine Zidane, Danone Nations Cup Ambassador, said: “A massive congratulations to France for winning this year’s Danone Nations Cup World Final. The teams all showed tremendous skill and professionalism on the pitch and I’m very proud to be a part of a fantastic program to help children develop their love for football and grow with respect for themselves and others around them. I wish everyone the best of luck in the future.”

Over the Danone Nations Cup’s fourteen-year history, the tournament has established itself as a highly respected event and gained official FIFA endorsement. By bringing this competition to the UK on the anniversary of the 2012 Games, Danone showed real commitment to helping deliver a sustainable activity, health and sports legacy. From this, the 2013 World Final was officially recognized by the ‘Inspired By 2012’ campaign.

During the four day event leading up to the final, the Pitch team were working with UK press to secure pre-event coverage to drive awareness of the event taking place. Check out our BBC Match of the Day Kickabout when we had Team England Captain interviewing Zidane… click here

Next year the Danone Nations Cup World Final will take place in Brazil.

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