Cachaço team protests for exclusion in the inter-zone tournament after success in previous competitions
Nova Sintra, Ilha Brava - October 4, 2023 - The football team from the town of Cachaço on Ilha Brava is in a state of indignation and protest after being excluded from this year's edition of the Interzonas Tournament, despite having emerged as champions and runners-up in zone competitions held in previous years.
The Cachaço football team demonstrated an exceptional performance in the zone competitions held in recent years, winning the title of champion on one occasion, coming second in another and third in the last edition. Cachaço residents eagerly awaited the opportunity to compete in this year's Interzonas Tournament, as they believed they had earned that right based on their past performances.
However, the news that Cachaco was not invited to participate in this year's Interzonas Tournament left the local community in disbelief and frustration. According to Daniel Cardoso, one of the team members, the organization said that this year they will only do four mixed events, 1 from Nossa Senhora do Monte, two from Vila and 1 from Furna.
Daniel Cardoso, said: "We worked hard and gave our best in the zone competitions. Our community was eager to represent Cachaço in the Interzone Tournament and showcase our talent. Not understanding why we were excluded is extremely disheartening."
The organizers on social media explained that this year the tournament model will be different, no longer by zones, but by regions, with emphasis on Nossa Senhora do Monte, Furna and Nova Sintra. However, the peaceful protests have gained support not only from the local community, but also from other Brava Island football teams who share the belief that Cachaço teams deserve the chance to compete in the regional tournament.
While the protests continue, hope remains that an amicable solution can be found in future years, to allow Cachaço to participate in the Interzonas Tournament, based on his past performance and in a spirit of sporting fairness.