The 2025 Krakow Trophy Cup Final was upon us. Ball Bashers were the current holders but they were soon to lose that crown to one of Half XI or DZ Fennecs.

Let's have a look at the two team's record to preview the action:

Half XI (Wal)

Best appearance to date: Debut

Record today: Played 5, Won 4, Drawn 1, Lost 0.

Goal difference today: 9-4 (+5)

Current unbeaten run: 5 games.

Today's top goalscorer: Jack Parry, Osian Jones (3)

Clean sheets: 2

DZ Fennecs (Pol)

Best appearance to date: Debut

Record today: Played 5, Won 5, Drawn 0, Lost 0.

Goal difference today: 9-1 (+8)

Current unbeaten run: 5 games.

Today's top goalscorer: Walid Moussi (4)

Clean sheets: 4

There can be no doubt we had the best two teams in the tournament contesting the Cup Final as we had the Group A winners competing against the Group B winners. Both teams were unbeaten to date and everything was perfectly poised.

A little subplot for Half XI was that in over 140 tournaments across Europe since 2007 we had never had a Welsh team win a title. The Shepherd's Arms came close at the 2023 Amsterdam Sixes when they drew 0-0 with Summerhouse but then lost on penalties. Half XI had a chance to create history over the course of this Cup Final.

Half XI had impressed throughout their debut campaign, combining youthful energy with disciplined game management. DZ Fennecs, meanwhile, had been the only team to emerge from the group stage with a 100% record, built on an outstanding defensive record of just a single goal conceded before the final. Expectations were high, but the first half saw the two sides cancel each other out in a tight, tactical battle that ended goalless at the break.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with chances at a premium as defences remained firmly in control. Both teams were looking for that one decisive opening. It arrived through Amine Chenouane, who found the net with his second strike of the tournament – and unquestionably his most important. His goal broke the deadlock and shifted the pressure firmly onto Half XI.

Despite a determined effort, Half XI were unable to find a way back into the game as DZ Fennecs managed the closing stages with the composure that had characterised their entire campaign. When the final whistle blew, it was DZ Fennecs who celebrated a 1-0 victory and lifted the Krakow Trophy on debut, capping off a remarkable day.

For Half XI, it was heartbreak at the final hurdle but also a tournament that offered huge promise. Unbeaten until the final and with a squad that mixed flair with determination, they proved themselves a force to be reckoned with. Their journey to the showpiece occasion was an achievement in itself, and they will surely take plenty of confidence and motivation into future tournaments.

DZ Fennecs were worthy champions. Not only did they finish the day with a flawless 100% record, but they also showcased the best defence and best goal difference across the entire competition. Every opponent found them incredibly difficult to break down, and that resilience proved the foundation of their success.

At the other end of the pitch, they combined skills, creativity, and sharp finishing to edge past quality opponents. With Walid Moussi and Amine Chenouane amongst the goals, and a supporting cast who delivered big moments when it mattered most, DZ Fennecs struck the perfect balance. Their debut appearance at the Krakow Trophy could not have been more impressive, and they fully deserved their place on the roll of honour as champions.

Thank you to all the teams who competed – it was a fantastic day. We hope to see you all again at another eurofootballfives.com tournament very soon.