International soccer festival opens in Baotou

The 1st Grassland International Football Festival opened in Baotou, Inner Mongolia autonomous region, on Aug 22, aimed at bringing together talented soccer players from excellent clubs and youth camps and driving local soccer training forward, reports Baotou Daily.

Brazilian soccer player Ronaldinho attended the opening ceremony and visited the Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology.

Ronaldinho expressed his views on soccer at a press conference held in Baotou.

During the festival, which will run until Aug 27, world renowned players and coaches are expected to gather in Baotou city to discuss youth training and cooperative exchange projects. Guest speakers will include Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes, former players from Manchester United, Chinese soccer star Li Yi, delegates from the Uruguayan Football Association and coaches from Ligue 1 and La Liga. 

Brazilian soccer player Ronaldinho at a press conference held in Baotou, Inner Mongolia autonomous region, Aug 22 [Photo/Baotou Daily]