Praise from Boban and Šuker

FIFA highlights "Vlatko Marković" International Tournament

13.04.2019.

Photo by: Drago Sopta/HNS

The world's highest football governing body FIFA highlighted the inaugural "Vlatko Marković" International U-15 Tournament on their official website.

During the past week, Pula and Medulin have been hosting an international U-15 tournament which carries the name of former HNS president Vlatko Marković, and which has also been featured on FIFA's official website.

"Throughout his career, Marković strived to develop the beautiful game in Croatia, so no doubt would approve of an international football tournament," says the article on the FIFA website.

The tournament received funding from FIFA through the FIFA Forward Programme. Eight U-15 teams are participating in this year's edition: Croatia, Argentina, Slovakia, China, Mexico, Greece, Korea, and Serbia.

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

The tournament was also praised by Zvonimir Boban, legendary captain of the Croatian national team and FIFA's Deputy General Secretary (Football):

“Vlatko Marković was very important to me as a coach. He was a true football lover and has left a longstanding mark on Croatian football with in his capacity as a legendary player, coach and the MA President. Personally, I'm delighted to see that HNS will honor Vlatko with this youth competition like pure token of his generosity towards the values of the beautiful game and of his contribution to its development.”

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

The tournament had its opening ceremony on Wednesday, and was opened by HNS president Davor Šuker. The final match will be played on Sunday.

"Vlatko Marković left a deep mark on Croatian football, and he was especially dedicated to the development of young players. With the support of FIFA Forward funds, we are proud to be able to organize a tournament of this kind in his honor, as this shows how important investment into young talents and their growth is to the Croatian Football Federation,” said Šuker.

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

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