2016.9.14

2016 J.League U-17 Challenge Cup to be held from September 17
will feature clubs from South Korea, Iran, and South Africa

The J.League will host the 2016 J.League U-17 Challenge Cup that begins on September 17, giving Japan’s top youth sides an international test for a second straight year.

The three-day tournament, founded as part of the league’s drive to promote a high level of technical and attractive football, is intended as an opportunity for young players to develop as well as experience facing international opposition.

The tournament features the top teams from the 2016 J.League U-16 Challenge League, which took place across six groups at four venues this spring. To encourage their development, overseas teams have also been invited to take part.

This year’s edition welcomes the participation of 2016 K-League U-17 Championship winners Ulsan Hyundai as well as Foolad Khouzestan FC representing the Iran Professional Football League who signed a partnership with the J.League in 2015.

Last but not least are South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns FC, winners of the inaugural GOTHIA CUP CHINA U-17 Elite Category.

Details regarding the tournament are as follows:

[2016 J.League U-17 Challenge Cup]

■Tournament Name: 2016 J.League U-17 Challenge Cup

■Organiser: Japan Professional Football League (J.League)

■Tournament Dates: September 17 (Sat) through 19 (Mon, Holiday) 2016

■Tournament Venue: J-GREEN Sakai (Osaka) [Osaka-fu, Sakai-shi, Sakai-ku Chikko Hachimancho 145]

■Participating Teams:
Tochigi SC (U-16 Challenge League Group 1 Champions)
Matsumoto Yamaga FC (U-16 Challenge League Group 2 Runners Up)
Avispa Fukuoka (U-16 Challenge League Group 3 Champions)
Kyoto Sanga F.C. (U-16 Challenge League Group 4 Champions)
Cerezo Osaka (U-16 Challenge League Group 5 Champions)
F.C. Tokyo (U-16 Challenge League Group 6 Champions)
Ulsan Hyundai FC (South Korea)
Foolad Khouzestan FC (Iran)
Mamelodi Sundowns FC (South Africa)

■Fixture List/Tournament Schedule