An international tournament that is more than a sport

Medulin, Croatia, became a special place for European girls' soccer over Easter. The KOMM MIT Girls Football Festival brought together almost 70 teams and over 1,000 players from seven nations — including Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Croatia, England, France and Luxembourg.

But figures only tell part of the story here. What really sets this tournament apart is the feeling it leaves behind: a safe space where young players can play soccer as they are — free, self-confident and full of passion.

A start that lasts: dance, music and goosebumps in the amphitheatre

The emotional highlight of the festival took place even before the first whistle: the opening ceremony in the historic amphitheatre in Pula.

Between centuries-old stone walls, a tournament start was an unforgettable moment. The teams didn't just roll in — they celebrated themselves, their teams and soccer together. There was dancing, laughing, singing and setting an example with waving flags: Girls' football belongs on the big stage. The backdrop gave you goosebumps. History and present merged into a moment that many players will remember for a long time to come.

Sport at a high level — and with great respect

On the pitch, it quickly became apparent that the girls' football festival is taking place at a high level of sport. In addition to many ambitious club teams, well-known junior teams were also represented — including VfR Warbeyen (2nd women's german Bundesliga), VfB Stuttgart and Bayer 04 Leverkusen. The games were intensive, goal-rich and technically strong. At the same time, the focus was always on treating each other with respect. Fair play, mutual recognition and the joy of playing shaped every encounter.

Regardless of the outcome, every team contributed to making this tournament a special experience — on and off the pitch.

A safe space that allows more than just soccer

The girls' football festival is deliberately more than just a classic tournament. It is a space in which young players can develop — sportively, personally and socially.

This creates an environment in which mistakes are allowed, development is central and every player is valued. It is precisely this atmosphere that makes the difference: no pressure, no distance — but community, support and genuine enthusiasm for soccer.

Visibility and responsibility — even off the pitch

An important part of the festival is the promotion of female referees, who are also part of the tournament. They manage games on an international level, make decisions under competition conditions and grow visibly with their tasks. The Girls' Football Festival thus creates a stage not only for female players, but for many roles in soccer — and strengthens the next generation in the entire soccer environment.

A strong sign for girls' soccer

The 2026 Girls' Football Festival impressively shows how girls' soccer is developing: more internationally, more visible and more self-confident.

KOMM MIT not only creates a tournament here, but also a space for development, encounters and genuine passion for soccer.

And that is exactly why one thing in particular sticks in the end:

This tournament is not just an experience. It is a statement for the future of girls' soccer.

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_{Credit: Philipp Behrendt}

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