The 6-a-side Socca World Cup, held in Essen last week, captured the hearts and minds of football enthusiasts around the globe, drawing in millions of viewers. However, as the final match between Kazakhstan and Ukraine approached, thousands of fans were left disappointed as they found themselves locked out of the highly-anticipated event (pictured).
The electrifying atmosphere in Essen was palpable as teams from across the world showcased their skills and battled it out on the pitch. Each match intensified the tournament’s appeal, captivating fans in Germany and millions more across the globe. Yet, the unprecedented interest and overwhelming demand ultimately led to the stadium being filled to capacity on many occasions. This resulted in a situation where thousands of supporters were unable to gain access to the stadium, instead clamouring to watch the action on large screens set up outside.
Expressing his astonishment at the level of interest generated by the 6-a-side Socca World Cup, Tournament Director Tom Nash stated, “The response to this tournament has been nothing short of incredible. We witnessed firsthand the passion and enthusiasm of fans from around the world, which clearly demonstrates the remarkable growth of the small-sided game.”
Nash further emphasised the significance of the tournament’s success and its impact on the future of the sport, saying, “The tremendous support we received from fans and viewers worldwide highlights the immense potential of the 6-a-side format.”
The organisers of the 6-a-side Socca World Cup are committed to building upon the remarkable achievements of this year’s tournament and are dedicated to making future editions even more unforgettable.