Saaba:Kadiogo/Saaba: The New Stars team clinched victory in the second edition of the Maracana tournament in Laguem-Taaba, Saaba, on Saturday, overcoming Racine Club de Tamsin (RCT) in a penalty shootout with a 3-1 score.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the tournament was themed "Youth, sport and fraternity: united for the consolidation of peace and social cohesion," and aimed to bring young people together around the values of fraternity, social cohesion, and communal living.

The match was closely contested, with neither team scoring during regulation time. New Stars emerged victorious in the penalty shootout, securing the trophy for the second edition. In addition to the trophy, they received a ball, a set of jerseys, and 200,000 FCFA. RCT, the runners-up, were awarded medals, a ball, and 150,000 FCFA. Awards were also given for best player, best goalkeeper, and top scorer.

New Stars captain Niodogo Josias admitted that his team initially underestimated their opponents but was satisfied with the victory, emphasizing the spirit of friendship. Emmanuel Ilboudo, representing the competition promoter, highlighted the initiative goal of strengthening ties between Laguem-Taaba and Nakomstenga residents.

The event provided a platform for community bonding, drawing both long-time and new residents together. Boureima Nabaloum, the event's director, praised the organization and the high level of play displayed by the finalists. Patron Issouf Oudraogo expressed his continued support for the tournament, motivated by its promotion of peace and unity.

The ceremony was blessed by Naaba Kaongo of Nakomstenga of Saaba and attended by several honored guests, local officials, and economic actors, contributing to the strengthening of fraternity and community spirit within Saaba.