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Local players have formed 10 teams for Social World Cup

It’s called the Social World Cup but according to Italy and Scotland, national pride on the line means these soccer matches could be anything but “friendly” when teams hit the field.

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IT’S called the Social World Cup but according to Italy and Scotland, national pride on the line means these soccer matches could be anything but “friendly” when teams hit the field.

A total of 10 teams have been formed to represent Australia, England, Scotland, Columbia, United Africa, Italy, Greece, The Netherlands, China and Syria in a three-week series involving up to 200 players.

They have been divided into two pools of five to play over four rounds preliminary rounds, finals and the last two teams standing will meet in the grand final at KGV.

Local soccer teams are preparing to play a Mini World Cup, Simon Robustelli (Italy), Steve Shellard (England), Brian Corcoran (Scotland), Juan Ramirez (Colombia), Saad Mohamad (Syria) and Aymen Abdalla (Africa).
Local soccer teams are preparing to play a Mini World Cup, Simon Robustelli (Italy), Steve Shellard (England), Brian Corcoran (Scotland), Juan Ramirez (Colombia), Saad Mohamad (Syria) and Aymen Abdalla (Africa).

Conceived by the University Soccer Club, the mini WC is designed for fun, fitness and friendship.

Simon Robustelli, of Team Italia, said the Azzurri lads would be out of the blocks faster than a Ferrari.

“We’re after bragging rights,” Robustelli said.

“It’s a proud thing, the World Cup, and this is something we can all get excited about, the camaraderie of everyone getting together out on the park and having a kick.”

Brian Corcoran never thought he would be selected in a Scottish national team, even a social one.

“There are plenty of Scotsmen here in Tassie to make up our team – we could probably form four teams,” he said.

“It’s a great opportunity to represent your country in a little way and have some fun with a lot of good people.

“It will be extremely competitive but at the same time played in good humour and with everyone enjoying it.”

The Social World Cup kicks off tonight with Australia meeting Italy, and Scotland versus Greece at Olinda Grove.

james.bresnehan@news.com.au

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Original URL: https://www.themercury.com.au/sport/local-players-have-formed-10-teams-for-social-world-cup/news-story/4c5af075ca9055fa187185257bea2672