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Experience in Johannesburg a strategic success for RCD Espanyol
Representatives visit the South African city
RCD Espanyol's first visit to South Africa was much more than a football tournament. This trip not only represented a sporting challenge, but also a strategic opportunity to strengthen cultural and institutional ties, communicate RCD Espanyol's values and consolidate the club's presence in a market where it is in a phase of growth and consolidation after two years of formative football in the country.
In the IberCup tournament, the RCD Espanyol team faced South African youth teams that stood out for their greater age and physical strength. It constituted an important learning experience for both the players and the coaching staff, reinforcing the team's competitive capacity and adaptation to different styles of play.
RCD Espanyol carried out a series of cultural activities in South Africa that enriched the team's experience. The visit to the Lory Park Animal and Owl Sanctuary, carried out together with Benfica and PSV, allowed the players to interact with rescued animals and learn about the importance of their conservation.
In addition, a tour of Soweto, including the historic Vilakazi Street and Mandela House, allowed the RCD Espanyol delegation to immerse themselves in the history of the fight against apartheid, consolidating a deep bond with the local culture.
The FNB Stadium, the scene of Spain's 2010 World Cup triumph, was also part of the RCD Espanyol itinerary. Historic moments were relived, such as Andrés Iniesta's tribute to Dani Jarque after scoring the winning goal in the final - a gesture that symbolises the connection between RCD Espanyol and the history of world football.
One of the highlights of the visit was the interaction with the players and staff of the RCDE Academy Johannesburg. RCD Espanyol are the first LALIGA club to open an academy in South Africa, a project that began in 2022 and that symbolises the club's commitment to the development of football in the region.
The La21 training model is adapted to new environments and encourages the development of football in South Africa.
In addition, during the stay, institutional and business meetings were held on site, consolidating RCD Espanyol's position in an English-speaking market with a great football tradition.
Representatives participated in interviews with local media, such as Radio 2000 and Channel Africa, highlighting the impact of the RCDE Academy and reaffirming the club's commitment to the training of young talents.
The club will feature in a a documentary about the IberCup tournament, and the visit to Johannesburg not only strengthened cultural and sporting ties, but also reaffirmed RCD Espanyol's strategic vision of expanding their legacy and training model globally.