Adidas brings Berlin challenge

Kolkata, May 24 (UNI) Adidas and IFA are bringing to the city a U-16 football fiesta that will give a chance for an Indian team to play in Berlin in the world final of ''Adidas+ Challenge Cup''.

The championship is coming here after traveling six cities - Hyderabad, Panaji, Chandigarh, Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai.

Announcing this, Adidas Marketing Director Hartwin Fedderssen said, '' We want to spread the game to the farthest part of the country and make it as innovative as possible. '' '' It is with this idea that we have brought the tournament here.

It will be a five a side tournament with the second round being played on a three a side format and then finally with one player each. The eventual winner will go to play in Berlin, where teams from 40 countries will assemble, '' he said.

While the zonal matches will be played next Friday and Saturday, the final will be played on Sunday.

The venue is Rabindra Sarovar Stadium.

The final will be played from July 1 to 4 in Berlin.

IFA secretary Subrata Dutta said, '' Since Kolkata has a busy league we have asked the teams to participate and the response is overwhelming. We hope to see some different, absorbing and exciting soccer. '' UNI BA SJC PDS RK1905