Round Three of the Melbourne U-NITE Cup proved to be an goal fest, as new tournament favourites emerged.
The U-NITE Cup is hosted by the Melbourne Chinese Soccer Association (MCSA) and has been running annually since 2014. The tournament celebrates cultural diversity, with each participating team representing a different nation.
The 2022 edition has attracted 24 men’s and 10 women’s entries, who are all battling to stamp a ticket to the Grand Final, which will be held on Sunday, January 15 at AAMI Park.
Week three kicked off this weekend with goals freely flowing across the games. The Iraq Men's team took a hold of Group A following a comprehensive 6-1 victory over Egypt. Afghan United also continued its strong form, only sitting behind the leaders on goal difference after defeating the Liberian Panthers 6-1, while Congo downed Vietnam 4-1 to sit third.
China defeated the Syria Eagles 3-0 to remain on top of Group B, while second-place Australia B outclassed Malaysia 5-1. Somalia and the Himalayan Tigers Nepal played out a 3-2, with Somalia taking the points in an entertaining fixture.
Following the weekend, Turkey is two points clear on top of Group C after an incredible 7-4 victory over Timor Leste. The win catapulted Turkey ahead of Brazil who only managed a point in hard-fought 2-2 contest with Mauritius. Fourth-placed Colombia defeated TL Galaxy 3-0, leaving both teams trailing the leaders with one win and two losses each.
Three clear winners emerged from Group D, with Korea defeating Afghan Premiers 3-1, Sunshine South Sudan overcoming Fiji 3-0 and Zimbabwe beating SE South Sudan 2-0.
On the women's side of the tournament, Melbourne United A comprehensively defeated the Zebras 9-0 to go top of Group A in the women’s bracket, while Australia United moved to the second spot with a powerful 9-2 victory over Chile.
In Group B, Villarreal Melb accounted for Viva Italia 3-0 and Melb United B defeated Turkiye girls 2-0, while UNITE kept the top spot despite having the bye.
Week four of the U-Nite Cup group games will be played across three sports venues on Sunday, November 20.
Be sure to come along and support your team. Enjoy some classic community football with your family and friends.
The tournament winners will experience a unique Melbourne Victory matchday experience at the club’s January 26 doubleheader for the Club’s U-NITE match with Sydney FC.
The 2021 champions were Afghan United (Men) and Roxburgh Park United (Women).