An entire youth football squad from Ethiopia has disappeared in Sweden following the conclusion of the Gothia Cup, a prestigious international youth tournament held in Gothenburg. According to the Sweden Herald, approximately 20 individuals — including players aged 14 to 17 and several adult supervisors — left their hotel without checking out and have not been seen since.
Tournament ended ten days ago
The Gothia Cup wrapped up ten days prior to the disappearance being reported, yet the group remains unaccounted for. Authorities confirmed that the team has not returned to Ethiopia, triggering a cross-border investigation involving multiple agencies.
International search operation underway
Swedish police are collaborating with the Swedish Migration Agency, border police, and law enforcement in other nations to locate the missing Ethiopians. The case has raised concerns about human trafficking and illegal immigration, though officials have not confirmed any criminal activity at this stage.
"We are working diligently with our international partners to trace the whereabouts of these individuals," a spokesperson for the Swedish Police Authority said. The investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made.
Impact on youth sports
This incident has cast a shadow over the Gothia Cup, which is known as the world's largest youth football tournament, drawing teams from over 80 countries annually. Organizers have expressed shock and are cooperating fully with authorities. The Ethiopian Football Federation has yet to issue an official statement.
