Goal supporting Armenia

In 1999, FIFA introduced the *Goal *Programme, which enables beneficiary member associations to implement projects designed to develop football in their respective countries. One of these countries is Armenia.

The former Soviet Union may have set great store by its sporting infrastructure during the 1960s and 1970s, but since the country became independent in 1991, the Armenian Football Association has been plagued by financial difficulties which have also affected the quality of football development.

The existing infrastructure and the quality of coaching have proved to be the major obstacles, with the development of young talent being the biggest casualty. For the Armenian Football Association, and indeed for every club, youth development is a fundamental aspect and one that lays the groundwork for a successful national team.

You can see how FIFA has contributed towards a brighter future for Armenian football in the Video of the Week.