Baidui Cup: A Worldwide Stage for Youth Football in Beijing

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 August 2025 – The 42nd “Baidui Cup” Football Tournament kicked off amid rain on August 8^th, bringing a refreshing coolness to the young players and reigniting the football passion in Beijing, often referred to as the “Dual Olympic City.”

Observing the spirited youngsters at the tournament, 51-year-old Chinese football legend Yang Chen was reminded of his youth and the competitions he participated in over forty years ago.

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“I treasure those thrilling moments spent running alongside my teammates, striving for excellence and pursuing victory. This is where my dream took flight,” said Yang, a native of Beijing who participated in the tournament’s original editions.

Known as the Baidui Cup, the Beijing youth football tournament started in 1984 with 112 teams and has now expanded to more than 1,000 teams in recent years.

This year’s 42nd Baidui Cup runs from August 8 to 17. “More children are joining this esteemed tournament, learning from each other, and honing their skills through competition. Their enthusiasm showcases the vibrant football culture here,” Yang noted.

During the ongoing tournament, young athletes competed across various fields in six districts of Beijing, cheered on by their families, undeterred by summer rains or sunshine.

“The Baidui Cup is the highlight of my summer break. It’s like a football festival,” exclaimed 10-year-old Li Jinglin, taking part for the fifth time. “I started as a left-wing midfielder at age five. Two years ago, when our goalkeeper was injured, I switched to defense and have continued in that role since. I aim to help our team secure victory.”

Nine-year-old forward Wang Yibo, whose family supported him, made his Baidui Cup debut after two years of playing football.

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“Initially, I just wanted him [Wang] to improve his fitness through weekly practice. Eventually, I recognized his intrinsic motivation to develop. I believe football will always be a part of his life,” said Wang’s mother, Guo Lele.

As the tournament has grown, more talents from cities across China and beyond are joining this youth football celebration.

This year, Coach Ma Zhiqiang brought his team from Rongjiang County in Guizhou Province to the Baidui Cup for the first time. Rongjiang is well-known for its Village Super League, known as Cun Chao.

“All my players come from Chemin Primary School in Rongjiang. I’ve only been coaching there for 10 months, but I can already see their determination and eagerness to play. Cun Chao has undoubtedly inspired them, and they dream of performing in front of their local audience one day,” Ma remarked.

Children from mountainous regions often have well-developed leg muscles but need to refine their skills, especially when compared to young players from Beijing’s professional clubs. Nevertheless, the performance of the Rongjiang team at the Baidui Cup impressed many.

Ma stated, “My team closely followed the game plan. They focused on defense in the first half and leveraged their physical strength for counter-attacks in the second half. We are delighted to have secured several wins here.”

Nine-year-old Lin Qihang, captain of the Rongjiang youth team, practices over three hours a day after school. He commented, “Football has instilled self-discipline in me. Our trip to Beijing is an opportunity to learn from other teams and to experience a broader world.”

Traveling thousands of miles, 11-year-old Christiano Konono from Zimbabwe participated in the Baidui Cup with teammates from Jadel Football Academy, a youth club in Beijing founded by former professional player Walter Musanhu in 2019.

Jadel Football Academy sent five age-group teams to this year’s Baidui Cup, including around 150 players from China, Zimbabwe, Japan, and other regions. This winter, Musanhu plans to take his Chinese players to Zimbabwe to experience African football culture.

“I have an immense passion for the kids, and they need encouragement. I want them to exceed what I accomplished as a player and create lasting memories,” Musanhu expressed.

Reflecting on the growth of the Baidui Cup, Gao Jun, secretary of the Beijing Football Association, stated, “As the tournament gains recognition, we will continue to host it annually. There’s no reason to halt now.”

Indeed, the Baidui Cup has become a landmark youth football tournament, driven by the enthusiasm of younger generations and the support of their families. Almost all elite players from Beijing have showcased their talents at the Baidui Cup, including former national team players Shao Jiayi and Liu Ying.

“A journey spanning over 40 years is not insignificant. I hope more young athletes can shine at the Baidui Cup and contribute to the growth of Chinese football and its associated sectors,” remarked Shao, who currently coaches Qingdao West Coast in the Chinese Super League.

Hashtag: #BaiduiCup

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