The installation of the artificial turf and the renovation of Dr. Ayoub Football Stadium in the city of Baidoa, in the South Western State of the federal republic of Somalia, opened a new chapter and added to the residents' enthusiasm for the sport.

The president of the regional football association, Ahmed Ali Hassan, told the media that the renovation of the stadium has created hopes for the football-loving generation in the region, adding that people’s interest for the sport is vehemently growing.

"Since the competition began nearly a week ago, it has attracted the attention of almost everyone in the city and we see growing enthusiasm for football. I am thankful to the president of the South Westren Somali State, His Excellency Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed, who financed the renovation project of the stadium. He is a true football lover and we are all grateful to him” the regional football association president stated.

The Stadium was relaunched on 17^th of February this year, but the Baidoa Cup which is being contested by 16 regional clubs, is the first event it hosts since its relaunch. All group stage matches will be played before the Holly Month of Ramadan. There will be a month-long break and the competition will resume after Ramdan, according to Mr. Hassan, the president of the South Western State football association. Baidoa Cup.

Meanwhile, the president of Somali Football Federation, Mr. Ali Abdi Mohamed, said he was very pleased to see Baidoa’s Dr. Ayoub Stadium renovated and hosting football matches once again.

"I am very delighted to see the facility having a new shape. It is attractive and I am loving it. I would like to commend the president of the South West State of Somalia his Excellency Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed for having a key role in the development of football in Somalia in general and in particularly in this federal member state” Somali Football Federation president, Mr. Ali Abdi Mohamed, said.

A CALL FOR SPONSORSHIPS.

The SFF president continued to say that sponsorships are some of the key pillars that football stands on and urged the business companies in the region to invest the game. "Football has gone far beyond than a sport being played – it is a big business industry so please join us and advertise your businesses with us” Somali Football Federation president, Ali Abdi Mohamed, said as he spoke to the media while visiting Dr. Ayoub Stadium.

Somali Football Federation Media Department

Email:media@somsoccer.so