It's the fourth day out here in beautiful Cape Town and we all feel like it is our town. We have seen so much in so little time and it is almost time to leave. There is always a chance to comeback but we have to make the best of what we have left. Today’s agenda was quite full, game versus Cape Town University and then a trip to one of the local restaurants Moya. But before we set out on our adventure we all get in a quick nap after breakfast to get ready for a long day.
CUNY vs. Cape Town University
It was a rainy, cold, and windy day out here in Cape Town. The bus has pulled up next to the Cape Town University campus and the team from New York had a lot to prove since their last performance. This game was going to test everyone’s ability to focus and perform under tough conditions. The team had a spirited practice day before and was determined to prove that they can compete on another continent against excellent competition. Before the game both teams lineup and greet each other at midfield in a sign of respect. After a few handshakes both teams are ready to take the field.
The whistle blows and both teams are showing a lot of energy under terrible conditions. The ball is moving and tackles are harder then they were last game. No team is giving ground. CUNY shows promise on a couple of attacks but are not unable take advantage. Hirofumi Takeuchi had a golden opportunity in front of the net but was unable to convert. It was a back and forth affair and the game only got faster. Cape Town team had an unbelievable chance, only to be denied by an outstanding save from Kafui Kouakou.
The first half ended scoreless but it was certainly entertaining. Both teams would have to play another incredible half to match the intensity. As the second half began both teams proved they wanted to win this game. From the start, the game got tougher and faster. Defenders were tackling harder and attackers were running faster. The CUNY team began to show more domination through possession of the ball but the Cape Town team was creating chances too. Finally, there is action near the box. Jhonny Osorio takes the ball in the box and beats a couple of defenders. Thomas Murdoch makes a run inside to find Osorio’s pass coming across and dives with his foot out, tucking the ball in bottom left corner to score our first goal for the trip. From there the chances only got better but no one managed to convert. Cape Town made a last effort to score only to be stopped by staunch CUNY defense. Final whistle blows and CUNY wins the game and earns their first victory for the trip.
After the game, we headed to the hotel and got ready for our next destination. Moya is a traditional African restaurant located in Cape Town. All of us had no idea what to expect but received one of the best experiences so far here. The restaurant was full of energy and performances filled with energy and soul. The performers brought the spirit of Africa to everybody through song and dance. Everyone got in to the spirit of the performance and some even got to participate on the stage. After the performance on stage, performers serenaded each table with a short song. Players had a lot of fun and staff managed to get in a few laughs too. Cameras were flashing everywhere, making this a memorable experience on a last night in Cape Town.
A victory on and off the field for the Goodwill team. Yes, victory is sweet but we also learned something new on our last night here. After the game, we received a touching reception from Cape Town University, which included a small dinner and some kind words from all the people involved in bringing us together. Players appreciated the kind words from our hosts and enjoyed a chat with the opposing team. Once again a day ends and we learn how gracious this country has been to us and how much more we can learn.
Starting Line Up.
12. Kafui Koukou (GK)
2. David Lovercheck (Defender)
9. Garfield Thomas (Defender)
11. Lindel Pope (Defender)
19. Roger Gonazalez ( Defender)
4. Thomas Murdoch (Midfielder)
16. Hirofumi Takeuchi (Midfielder)
10. Caner Yilmaz (Midfielder)
13. Jonathan Guenzatti (Midfielder)
3. Marcin Buk (Forward)
17. Ohionameh Aregbeyen (Forward)
Subs.
5. Clint McGregor (Defender)
6. Daniel Rendon (Midfielder)
7. Jhonny Osorio (Midfielder)
8. Nizar Chahbani (Midfielder)
15. Dukens Richie (Defender)
1. Michael Giardano (Goalkeeper)
“After the game, we went to the place called Moyo for dinner. Moyo means a “soul” in Swahili. The place looked like an authentic South African restaurant, and they served authentic African food as well. Speaking of authenticity, they had dancers or singers in their traditional clothes. Even though I did not understand what they were saying or singing, I enjoyed the atmosphere being there. We had our faces painted too. Food was great and it was definitely one of the memorable dinners we had on this trip.”
Hirofumi Takeuchi – John Jay
“ I would like to take a moment to thank Peter, for being an amazing host. I had a long chat with him yesterday and he’s one of the most noble gentleman’s I’ve ever met”