Elephants play a football match in Nepal

The terraces were abuzz with anticipation ahead of a grudge clash between two mammoths of the modern game. And if one thing could be said for these players, no matter how loud the crowds cheered, at least they could always hear the whistle. This elephant football match in the Chitwan region of Nepal is an annual event designed to raise awareness for wildlife conservation. And there was some real skill on display such as this Maradona-like run from one striker who found the back of the net with ease thanks in part to some shocking defending. The final was between sponsors Kiss Bank and Gasuri Shankar Development Bank. And organisers say the game is enjoyed by all, not least the elephants themselves. This isn't being played by men, it's being played by wild animals and it's really enjoyable. People get the message all over the world that an animal which is very difficult to train in the household is playing soccer for the entertainment of the people. That's why we participate every year and it's very successful for us. The game ended 6-0 to Kiss Bank, but the coveted prize of elephant of the match could go to only one player, her name Pele the elephant, and she even has her own song.