Koupela: The final of the 12th edition of the Cup of the Union for Peace and Development of Kourittenga (COUPDK) concluded with Dormund FC emerging victorious in a penalty shootout against Almeria FC, successfully defending their league title.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the match between Dormund FC and Almeria FC was intensely contested. Despite numerous opportunities, the teams remained goalless after 40 minutes of play. With the score tied at the end of regulation time, the outcome was decided by penalties, where Dormund FC ultimately prevailed to retain their championship.

Fran§ois Xavier Nikiema, the promoter of the event, emphasized the significance of the competition beyond the sport itself, highlighting its role as a platform for promoting peace and fraternity. He remarked, “In a context where insecurity tries to divide us, sport unites us. It allows us to hold on, to believe in a better future, hence the choice of our theme: The ball as a shield, sport and resilience in the face of security challenges.”

The event, which saw active participation and innovations such as the doubling of prizes, was deemed a success. Dormund FC, as the winning team, received a trophy, a set of jerseys, balls, and a cash prize of 500,000 CFA francs. Almeria FC, finishing second, was awarded 400,000 CFA francs along with sports equipment.

The presence of dignitaries such as His Majesty Naaba Yemde, Kourit-Yir-Soaba, the governor of the Nakamberegion, Colonel Aboudou Karim Lamizana, along with local, customary, and religious authorities, underscored the community’s commitment to sport and social cohesion.