A Hollywood director couldn't have scripted a more dramatic final match for the Homeless World Cup if he'd tried. Throughout the 14 minutes, Russia and Afghanistan traded goals with the Afghan goalkeeper making a fierce stand at the end to secure the victory for Afghanistan, 5-4.

With the skill and poise the Afghan team showed throughout the tournament, it was hard to believe that these players came from a country ravaged by war, where true soccer fields and sports programs are severely limited. But with the cheers from the crowd and the photographers shooting away, it was very easy to believe that the Afghans were champions.

The Homeless World Cup may be over for this year, but the soccer will continue as each team returns home determined to make 2009 their year.

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