"I can now show everyone that you can achieve what you want."
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The Dutch team competed for the cup on 28 June at the EURO UNITY Cup in Frankfurt: the European Championship for players with a refugee story. "It's great to be in the Orange jersey. After the selection day and training sessions, we are ready to win!"
The EURO UNITY Cup is about to begin
Early in the morning, the teams gather at the sports complex of the amateur club Weiss-Blau in Frankfurt. The club is hosting a European Championship: the EURO UNITY Cup. This European Cup is organised by UEFA and UNHCR.
16 European countries participate in the tournament. The players do a warm-up and the coaches discuss the lineup. The EURO UNITY Cup is about to begin!
"I see everyone giving their all"
In the group stage in Frankfurt (Germany), the Netherlands will play against Spain, Switzerland and a mixed team from the European Union. The teams consist of both men and women. Every match there must be at least one woman on the field. The Netherlands won all matches in the group stage. Noori: "We are a great team. I see that everyone gives their all!"
Playing football at the highest level is a dream of many players. It is Noori's dream, too. "I played in Yemen in the national youth team. You did not get paid anything for that. So I ended up choosing to study in Egypt. I saw more future in that."
"I hope to be a positive example to others."
The Dutch team advances to the semifinals against Ireland. The score remains 0 - 0, so it comes down to penalties. This is not a good omen in Dutch football history.
Things remain exciting for a long time, but the Irish manage to walk away with the victory. Disappointed, but with their heads held high, the players leave the field. Noori commented, "The fact that I am playing in Orange means a lot. It is a dream I had as a child. Now I can show everyone that you can achieve what you want. I hope to be a positive example for others."