Zagreb Once Again Welcomes University Futsal Europe: A Look Back at the 2010 EUSA Futsal Triumph
Zagreb Once Again Welcomes Europe: A Look Back at the Historic 2010 EUSA Futsal Triumph
In July 2010, Zagreb played host to one of the most thrilling editions of the EUSA European University Futsal Championship, marking a defining moment for Croatian university sports. The 7th edition of this prestigious competition, held from July 18th to 25th, brought together over 400 participants from 25 teams representing 23 European countries, turning Zagreb into the epicenter of university futsal for an entire week.
Zagreb welcomed 16 men's teams and 9 women's teams, featuring representatives from a diverse array of countries including France, Germany, Spain, Poland, and the United Kingdom. As players, coaches, and fans gathered at the iconic sports venues across the city, the spirit of international unity and sporting excellence was palpable. Not only was Zagreb proud to host, but Croatian university teams also had the opportunity to shine on their home ground.
The Road to Glory
The highlight of the championship came when the men's team from the University of Zagreb captivated the entire nation by claiming the gold medal. In a spectacular final match, they overcame the University of Minho from Portugal, securing a decisive 6:2 victory. This remarkable achievement was the culmination of a decade of dedication and progression for Croatian university futsal, which had been steadily building momentum since its debut at the inaugural EUSA futsal championship in 2004.
In the women's competition, Croatian teams also showed commendable performance. The students from the University of Rijeka fought valiantly, ultimately securing a respectable sixth-place finish against a field of highly skilled competitors from across Europe. Their determination and effort underscored the strength and passion of Croatian athletes, both male and female.
For the University of Zagreb, this victory was not just about winning a championship—it represented the culmination of years of perseverance and hard work. After multiple podium finishes in prior championships, including a silver medal in inaugural, 1st edition of EUSA Futsal Championships, held in Italy in 2004, along with silver medal in Serbia in 2006, and another silver in Slovenia in 2007, followed by bronze from Montenegro in 2009, the 2010 victory on home soil was a moment of glory that fulfilled the dreams of many in that generation. The team's success was a testament to the legacy of Croatian futsal and to the unwavering support from coaches, students, and the wider university community.
More Than Just Competition
The event itself was a monumental organizational success, involving over 100 volunteers and held under the patronage of the President of the Republic of Croatia. With the Zagreb Academic Sports Federation (UniSport ZG), the University of Zagreb, and the Croatian Academic Sports Federation, the championship was marked by seamless coordination, high-level sporting excellence, and an unforgettable sense of camaraderie.
The closing ceremony was another highlight, where the EUSA flag was ceremoniously handed over to Tampere, Finland, the next host of the championship, signifying the international spirit of the event.
The 7th EUSA European University Futsal Championship left a lasting impact not just on further development of both university sports and university futsal on in Zagreb, but on all participants and spectators. It was an event that showcased the very best of university sport—competitive spirit, dedication, and unity. The memories of that victory, and of hosting such an extraordinary event, continue to inspire the next generation of student-athletes in Croatia and across Europe.