VietNamNet Bridge – FIFA had approved the fourth phase of a project to nurture football in Viet Nam, a source from the Viet Nam Football Federation (VFF) said.

The project was initiated by FIFA President Joseph S Blatter in 1998 with the aim of helping developing countries foster a football culture among their youngsters. So far, it has provided funding for the construction of the VFF's headquarters, a youth academy, training facilities and a coach for the men's national team.

An official from the VFF said FIFA had approved its Goal Project 4 during a meeting in Zurich earlier this month.

FIFA will allocate funds to Viet Nam which will be used to invest in two floodlighting systems for artificial pitches in Ha Noi, as well as a fitness training facility.

FIFA provided US$375,000 for the VFF headquarters during the 1998-2003 period, and another $600,000 for the youth academy between 2005-07.

VietNamNet/Viet Nam News