The Luxembourg Football Federation (FLF) celebrates its centenary on Saturday 22 November, with star striker Jeff Strasser epitomising the dogged commitment that has characterised the first 100 years of football in the Grand Duchy. “Despite always being rank outsiders, it’s an honour for me to play for Luxembourg,” he said. The FLF now boasts 109 clubs and over 30,000 licensed players, and will mark its anniversary with Wednesday’s international friendly against neighbours Belgium.

Recent successes reflect the FLF’s increased efforts in encouraging young players through its academy in Monnerich, and the nation hosted the 2006 UEFA European Under-17 Championship. A women’s national team was established in 2003, and the nation has produced some top match officials too, including Alain Hamer, the fourth official at the opening game of UEFA EURO 2004™, and UEFA Champions League referee Luc Wilmes. The FLF may represent one of UEFA’s smaller nations, but in terms of spirit and style, it continues to punch well above its weight.