ABU DHABI // There is good news for football fans who cannot make it to the grounds to see the Fifa Under 17 World Cup matches in person.
An official Fifa Fan Zone will open on the Corniche on Thursday to give supporters a front-seat view of the world’s finest young players in action.
A big screen will show tournament matches and there will be football contests and prizes up for grabs.
“The Fan Zone is a fantastic day out for anyone who loves football,” said the tournament director, Mohammed bin Bdoua. “Visitors can expect plenty of fun activities, from target shot games to human table football to a mini-pitch, all with prizes to be won.
“We are looking forward to bringing together all of the UAE’s football communities to celebrate the Fifa U17 World Cup.
“This is one of the largest and most thrilling football festivals in the UAE, so don’t miss out on the chance to get involved and be part of the celebrations.”
The Fan Zone, at the public and family beach, will be open from 4pm to 11pm from Saturday to Wednesday, and 4pm to midnight on Thursday and Friday, until the tournament closes on November 8.
Those who want to be at the matches can obtain free tickets to any of them, three days before each kick-off.
The tickets are also available at Hallmark stores across the UAE and online at www.fifa.com/u17worldcup.
The UAE team’s first game is against Honduras at Abu Dhabi’s Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium on Thursday. Kick-off is at 8pm.
ksinclair@thenational.ae