For DHL Supply Chain, we delivered full event production for the fourth edition of the international CEE Soccer Cup at the prestigious X-Bionic Sphere in Šamorín. More than 350 participants, 29 teams and representatives from five countries — Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary and Romania — travelled to Slovakia to take part in the Soccer tournament.
The tournament had previously taken place in Katowice, Cheb and Olomouc, so our goal was to raise the bar once again. We chose X-Bionic Sphere, one of Slovakia’s premier sports complexes, as the venue. This gave participants the opportunity to enjoy playing on a top-quality English-style natural grass pitch, also used by the Slovak national football team and ŠK Slovan Bratislava, and previously host to several renowned international clubs and youth national teams.
Our team managed every aspect of the event, from venue selection, accommodation, accreditation and catering to the tournament format, technical production, hosting, side activities and the evening party. Upon arrival, participants received a starter pack containing event information, branded merchandise and, as an added bonus, a selection of traditional Slovak snacks.
The tournament kicked off in the morning with the teams gathering for a welcome ceremony, accompanied by an exciting drum show that brought plenty of energy to the occasion. The main pitch was transformed into four identical football fields, with each team having its own designated area. A well-coordinated team of referees, runners, medical staff equipped with their miracle cooling spray, and catering personnel ensured everything ran smoothly. The atmosphere was further fuelled by a DJ and the energetic host Luki Turiak, who guided participants through the event in several languages.
Throughout the day, a large LED screen displayed live scores and event information, complemented by high-quality sound, hydration stations offering isotonic drinks, fresh fruit and other refreshments for the players. The programme also included additional sports activities, fan accessories and an incredible atmosphere in the stands. The Polish teams, in particular, brought plenty of energy, arriving with their own fan clubs, banners and a variety of creative and humorous props. Another highlight was the all-female team Ladies Gang, as well as the rule requiring every team to include a female player in each match.
The group stage was followed by knockout matches, with the excitement building all the way to the final. Before the semi-finals, participants were treated to a surprise (a very pleasant one, of course!) — an energetic flash mob featuring a performance by samba dancers. After a series of high-quality, fair-play matches, the title went to HQ Warszawa, who defeated FC Sosnowiec in the final.
The tournament concluded with an evening celebration featuring an extensive catering selection, an awards ceremony recognising the best teams and individual players, followed by a DJ party. Participants made the most of the event, enjoying an experience that brought together sport, teamwork and socialising. Once again, we would like to thank our client for their trust and excellent collaboration. Based on the initial feedback, we successfully raised the bar yet another level, and we are already looking forward to our next events together.