I returned home last night from the inaugural Transplant Football World Cup held in Cervia, Italy. The team from Chile emerged victorious, securing the championship by winning all their matches against their opponents! I extend my heartfelt congratulations to them! As I process my thoughts, memories, and emotions, I share a few words from Team USA:
Team USA finished 9th in the World Transplant Games Federation’s first Transplant Football World Cup which concluded yesterday in Cervia, Italy.
Although the team of 14 men and women had trained and practiced separately in their own states, they only met each other for the first time the night before the first match. However, the group was able to come together as a team and salvaged two ties and a final win in their last three matches.
After losses to France, Ireland, and England, Team USA tied Rumania, losing in the penalty kick shootout. The team then tied Wales, this time winning the shootout. In its final game, Team USA defeated Northern Ireland to capture 9th place.
The Cup was won by Chile, who defeated Spain, in a classic match of European vs South American style. England was third, followed by France.