Ningbo team shines at global beach football event

The players of Zhejiang Ningbo TMS Football Club celebrate after scoring a goal in the match. [Photo/Ningbo Daily]

Zhejiang Ningbo TMS Football Club from Ningbo, Zhejiang province, has etched its name in the annals of the city’s football history by clinching the bronze medal at the recent World Winners Cup Alghero 2024.

On Sept 22 (Beijing time), the Chinese representatives defeated Ukraine's BSC Vybor 4-3 in the thrilling third-place playoff in Alghero, Italy, marking a triumphant conclusion to their international campaign.

Hailing from Haishu district, TMS Football Club has emerged as a formidable force in beach football, dominating local and national competitions alike. Their victory at the 2023 Chinese Men's Beach football Championship secured their ticket to this year's World Winners Cup, where they stood as the sole Chinese representative amidst 24 of the world's top beach football clubs.

The team's aim was to reach the quarterfinals and secure a top-eight finish. However, they surpassed these goals, advancing through the group stage undefeated and defeating Finland's BSC Hobby and Cyprus' Pafos FC in the knockout rounds. Although they fell short in the semifinals, they bounced back with a determined performance to clinch the bronze medal.

The World Winners Cup Alghero 2024, organized by Beach Soccer Worldwide, is a prestigious international event that showcases the best beach football clubs from around the world.

In recent years, beach football has been a key focus of the Ningbo Football Association's efforts to foster unique football initiatives. The city has hosted numerous local and national events while vigorously supporting teams like TMS Football Club.