After last year's great competition in Amsterdam, the united firm spirit was once again a fundamental element in this year's championship. It was an intense competition for more than 120 colleagues from 10 countries: Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.

Challenging conditions
During the group phase, nine teams had to face off against each other. Very warm temperatures added an extra challenge for players. The situation improved after lunch, where international RB crowd enjoyed refreshing drinks and seized the opportunity to get to know each other better.

Italy and Belgium won their respective matches, however they both fell later on during the semifinal knock-out phase, where the UK team's tenacity triumphed in the final over Belgium's technique. On the other field, a solid French team won the penalty lottery against Italy.

Counter-attacks and stunning saves
The final featured the UK against France and started with both teams singing their respective national anthems. The RB crowd watched a game featuring plenty of counter-attacks and stunning saves. In the end, our London colleagues managed to force France to penalties, which ultimately led England to success - demonstrating that as a team, everything is possible.

After a few cold beers, everybody moved to the A.C. Milan Museum for dinner and a tour among the Italian soccer team's historical trophies. A stage had been set a celebration of the UK victory, which was continued on the dance floor of one of Milan's fanciest clubs. The dance floor ultimately brought all RB players and related supporters together.

It was a tough day, but one dedicated to our firm's spirit, passion and drive for success. Italian Managing Partners Alfredo Arpaia, Andrea Marinoni and Paolo Massardi whole-heartedly cheered along the teams, joining them from the very beginning of the day until the very end of the night.

Eager for next year's Cup
We loved hosting such a great event and celebrating the Roland Berger spirit. We would like to thank the supporting partners for making this happen, as well as all the players and supporters who came to Milan.

We hope you had as much of a great time as we did and we look forward to seeing even more teams in London, where the RB Cup 2018 will be held!
 
A presto!
Team Italy