The U15’s arrived at Manchester airport where they got on the bus to their hotel. The day of arrival was focused on checking in at the hotel and getting some rest after the long flight.

On Wednesday morning, the 14^th of August, the day started with a training session. After having a healthy lunch at the hotel, the whole team went on the bus to get to the center of Liverpool. They discovered the beauty Liverpool has to offer, seeing Anfield, the Beatles statue and visiting the Liverpool fan shop.

The next day began the first day of the Merseyside U15 tournament. The team started with a breakfast at the hotel and then got on the bus to the Liverpool FC Academy. Upon arrival at the academy the group phase of the tournament started, with games against Premier League clubs Southampton FC and Aston Villa and Spartak Travna from Slovakia, it was a tough group phase. After exciting games against Southampton (1-0 loss) and Aston Villa (2-0 loss), the match against Spartak Travna was won 2-1. These results made Atlanta become third in their group.

Friday, the second and final day of the tournament took place. With a solid 4-0 win over IF Gnistan from Finland, Atlanta United FC got to play their final for the 5^th or 6^th place against Colombus Crew. After 40 minutes the battle for 5^th and 6^th place between Atlanta and Colombus Crew ended in a 0-0 tie, which meant penalties had to be taken. After the penalties were eventually lost, it meant Atlanta United FC could receive the 6th-place Merseyside International Cup trophy at the ceremony.

After the two tournament days it was time for some extra days in the UK for Atlanta United FC U15. On the day after the tournament, a friendly match against a true superpower awaited, namely against the big and famous club Manchester United at Manchester United’s own training complex (the Carrington training centre). This was a very exciting match that ended in a 3-1 win for Manchester United. This was a very exciting match that ended in a 3-1 victory for Manchester United. Despite the loss it was a great learning opportunity for Atlanta United FC. After playing the match and looking around Manchester United’s immense training complex, Atlanta United FC got on the bus to Old Traffford. Here they got some lunch, walked around Old Trafford and visited the Manchester United club store.

All in all, Atlanta United FC’s U15 team had a great time in the UK! Are you interested in making a trip? Then be sure to check out our page and read all about the possibilities.