The third Magnum Tonic Wine Mashramani Cup Futsal tournament kicks off Saturday at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue.
According to a release from the tournament coordinator, Esan Griffith, the tournament, which will feature 24 teams, will last for the duration of nine nights, with the grand finale set for February 22nd at the same location. The other playing dates are January 28th, January 30th, February 1st, February 4th, February 6th [Round of 16], February 8th [Quarterfinals].
The respective teams will be divided into six groups of four, with the top two finishers from each section and the best four third place finishers advancing to the knockout round.
The groups are Group-A: Back Circle, Sparta Boss, Ansa McAl All-Stars and Bad-A-Yard, Group-B: Rio All-Stars, Leopold Street, Spartacus and Melanie, Group-C: Future Stars, Alexander Village, Spot-7 and Mocha, Group-D: Bent Street, Showstoppers, North East La Penitence and Avocado Ballers, Group-E: Sophia, Broad Street, Kingston and Island All-Stars and Group-F: Gold is Money, Albouystown, Stabroek Ballers and Belfield Warriors.
“The competition once again promises to be an exciting affair as the teams aim to secure the coveted title. Thrilling action will be expected and produced from the group stage, with the possibility of many unlikely results being fashioned which would bode well for the tournament,” said Griffith.
“I would like to thank the fans for their unwavering support since the inception of the tournament and I expect the trend to continue as the tournament has grown into the marquee indoor competition. Presently all systems and protocols are being finalized for the staging of the championship, the only thing that remains is for the teams to prepare and execute in their effort to secure a berth in the grand finale. The official fixtures for the event will be presented at the official launch,” he added.
The first prize is $600,000 and the championship trophy, while the second prize is $300,000 and the respective accolade. The third and fourth place teams will receive $200,000 and $100,000 respectively and trophies.
