Exclusive: Ex-pro Tekkal on the UCL final & a very special project | OneFootball

Three girls, who are otherwise reserved, suddenly find themselves in the spotlight: At the UEFA Champions League final, they walk hand in hand with the referees into the stadium - a moment they will never forget. The three are from the Scoring Girls project, which was founded by former professional soccer player Tuğba Tekkal.

With her project, she not only gives girls from disadvantaged backgrounds access to sports, but also visibility, self-confidence, and a sense of belonging. In an interview, she talks to OneFootball about her motivation, the power of soccer, and why exactly these moments have an impact far beyond the playing field.

Watch here how UEFA Champions League legend Iniesta surprises the Scoring Girls

When was the Scoring Girls project founded and what did you want to achieve with it?

"2014, when I was still playing for 1. FC Köln. As a child, I experienced discrimination, but on the soccer field, I felt free and belonged. I wanted to enable other girls to experience this place of freedom. Already at the first training session, many came - that shows how great the need is. I wanted to help them make friends, believe in themselves, and experience participation."

How can soccer help the girls?

"Our focus is on trust, respect, and sensitivity. The girls are allowed to be themselves - with their dreams and their story. We place some in sports clubs, others come to experience community. What's important is that they no longer feel like outsiders. We work in a needs-oriented way to strengthen self-confidence. Origin, religion, or skin color don't matter - what counts is the togetherness on and off the field."

Three girls walk into the UEFA Champions League final with the referees. Are the three already excited?

"They are totally excited, constantly sending me photos and videos - including with Iniesta and the trophy. It's a dream come true for them. I'm in close contact, even though I'm not in Munich myself. But I'm thrilled for them. Thanks to the UEFA Foundation and FedEx, this is possible. Such partners show: Together, we can achieve more. They not only make special experiences possible for the girls, but also ensure that our project becomes visible. It's valuable to have partners by our side who send a strong signal into the soccer world - for humanity and solidarity. Exactly what the girls are experiencing right now, and for them, it means everything."

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How will this experience strengthen the girls' self-confidence?

"This experience will shape them for life. They are visibly growing beyond themselves - speaking in front of cameras, showing themselves more confidently. When they return, they will say with pride: 'I was at the Champions League final.' It's a strong signal - for themselves and for other girls who are often overlooked."

How were the girls selected?

"There were specifications like age and size. We deliberately chose girls who usually stay in the background. The other Scoring Girls took it super well and were genuinely happy for them. The cohesion among the girls is something very special."

One more look at the final: What do you think - how will the game turn out?

"I'm tipping Inter. Whoever knocks out Barcelona, in my opinion, also has what it takes to win. Their will, their class - that impresses me a lot."

Which player from the two final teams impresses you particularly?

"Yann Bisseck. As a Kölnerin, I follow his path with pride. He has developed strongly, carries Köln in his heart, and takes responsibility. I hope he plays - I love his energy and his attitude."

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.