Chaldean Patriarch Sako presides over closing of 4th Pope Francis Football Championship in Baghdad

BAGHDAD — Chaldean Patriarch Mar Louis Raphael Sako led the closing ceremony of the 4th Pope Francis Football Championship, organized by the Catholic Youth Committee, at the Apostles Church stadium in Baghdad’s Al-Dora District.

The event saw participation from prominent figures, including Primate of the Armenian Church in Iraq Archbishop Avak Asadourian and Chaldean Patriarch Vicar Archbishop Basilios Yaldo. Priests, clergy, and fans, including members of the San Diego Archdiocese in the US, also attended the celebration.

Thirteen teams representing various Baghdad churches competed in the tournament. The final match concluded with the Mar Yusef Chaldean Cathedral team claiming a 2-0 victory over the Mar Tuma Church team. This marks the second championship win for the Mar Yusef team.

Father Hanna Qallo, the tournament supervisor, expressed gratitude to Patriarch Sako, the archbishops, and clergy for their unwavering support. He invited them to distribute awards to the victorious teams, capping off a joyous celebration of sportsmanship and community spirit.