By Guo Yishun, Liu Ruizi

SONGJIANG, China— The 18th World University Championship Futsal opened with great fanfare in Songjiang on June 9th. Representatives from 21 teams across 16 countries, including football giants Argentina, Brazil, and Croatia, participated in the opening ceremony, marking the start of a week-long international sporting event.

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The ceremony commenced with a vibrant procession of athlete representatives, welcomed by thunderous applause from the spectators. As the national anthem of the People's Republic of China resonated throughout the stadium, the national flag was raised. Xie Dong, Vice Mayor of Shanghai, officially inaugurated the championship.

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In a solemn pledge to uphold the values of fair play and integrity, referees and athlete representatives committed to maintaining the highest standards of sportsmanship throughout the tournament. Sami A. Garabedian, a member of Executive Committee of the International University Sports Federation, addressed the attendees, encouraging them to embrace honesty, integrity, and mutual respect, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and enjoyment.

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Hu Jie, head coach of the Chinese women’s team, expressed pride in competing on home ground, stating, "It’s a privilege to participate in such a prestigious competition here in Songjiang, and we are determined to perform at our best." Wang Qing, captain of the Chinese men’s team and a student at Shanghai University of Engineering Science, highlighted the team’s ambition to build on past successes and aim for the championship.

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The opening ceremony was enriched by cultural performances from students of various Shanghai universities, showcasing a fusion of traditional and modern themes. Performances titled "In Pursuit," "Chasing the Light," and "Dreams Come True" celebrated the vibrant spirit of youth and cultural diversity.

Liu Lixin, Chairman and Secretary-General of the Chinese University Sports Federation, articulated the vision of the championship as a celebration of simplicity, safety, and excitement. He emphasized the commitment to promoting the "Shanghai Spirit" and the ideals of the International University Sports Federation, leveraging sports as a means to unite, build friendships, and promote global harmony.

Throughout the coming week, 51 matches will captivate audiences nationwide and beyond, broadcasted through television, online streaming, and other platforms.

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Photos by Zhang Zhelun

Video by Wang Junjie

Editor: Lin Yan, Shu Zhengyu