The fourth edition of the annual Human Rights Day Soccer Tournament, hosted by CIA First International School and organised by Rising Stars International Sports Academy, played out yesterday at the Emperial Sports Club near Northbridge.

Around 500 children took part in the event which marked the international Human Rights Day holiday.

“Sports bring a diversity of people together in healthy competition. All people have the right to play sports,” CIA First school director Andre Struve said during a brief opening ceremony yesterday.

“Through this tournament, we are not only promoting the freedom to engage in sports by all, but also ensuring that there are no forms of discrimination to those engaged in sports.”

In the final of the U10 category, CIA First defeated Golden Gate 3-2 on penalties after their game had ended 0-0 in regulation time. Third place went to 3G Academy.

3G Academy triumphed in the U12 division following a 2-1 win over Phnom Penh Crown Community with CIA First in third.

The hosts were unlucky in the U14 final, edged out 2-1 by Zaman International School, as Phnom Penh Crown Community picked up the bronze.

The title decider for the U17 section was watched by over 200 cheering supporters and featured Pegasus against PSE.

Pegasus soared to a 2-0 lead before PSE started to stage a late rally. They drew one back but couldn’t find an equaliser in time as the referee blew the whistle to grant Pegasus the trophy.

Pegasus had defeated RSISA 2-1 on spotkicks in their semi-final, while PSE saw off SCAO 1-0. RSISA then sealed third with a 1-0 victory over SCAO.

RSISA director and tournament organiser Ken Gadaffi said: “We have brought together students from different academic, social and cultural backgrounds to the same soccer pitch to engage in a friendly day of sports and cultural exchange.

“This year we hosted 26 teams from 14 different schools and organisations, the largest turnout ever, and it just goes to show how much this event is gaining popularity among youths.”