|

Zhejiang's young players compete against Spain's Villarreal CF. [Photo/Hangzhou News]

Four U15 teams from China, Spain, and South Korea gathered on Aug 26 in Keqiao district, Shaoxing, Zhejiang province, for the 2026 International Youth Football Invitational Tournament (Zhejiang).

The tournament, which will run until Aug 28, features teams from the Zhejiang and Hangzhou Football Administration Centers, Spain's Villarreal CF, and South Korea's Goseong FC. It aims to promote international exchanges while giving local players opportunities to test themselves against teams with different playing styles.

In the opening match, Villarreal, known for its youth development system and fast-paced, technical style, defeated Zhejiang by a wide margin.

Zhejiang midfielder Chen Pengyun said the match highlighted differences in pace, footwork, and physical technique between his team and their international opponent. The experience, he said, would motivate him to train harder and work to narrow the gap with top international teams.

In the other match, Hangzhou drew 2-2 with South Korea's Goseong FC.

The four teams will continue competing, giving players from Zhejiang and Hangzhou further opportunities to gain experience against international opponents.