COLOMBO: (ePRESS) – Sri Lanka’s first-ever league football tournament for juniors, the FFSL President’s Youth Cup 2025, is scheduled to kick off on January 13 at the Racecourse Grounds in Colombo. Organized by the Manchester Soccer Academy (MSA) in collaboration with the Football Federation of Sri Lanka (FFSL), the tournament will feature two junior age groups, Under-14 and Under-16, and will run until the grand finals on February 22.
This historic event marks a significant step for youth football in Sri Lanka, offering over 35 matches played across two venues – the Racecourse Grounds in Colombo and the Beddagana Football Complex in Kotte. Matches will be held during the evenings on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, making it accessible for school players and their supporters.
The month-long tournament is the brainchild of Augustine George, a former national football player and current Head Coach of the Sri Lanka Under-20 football team. As the founder and Managing Director of Manchester Soccer Academy in Colombo, George envisioned a platform to nurture young talent and provide opportunities for aspiring footballers who lack access to organized school competitions.
“The FFSL President’s Youth Cup 2025 is not just a tournament; it’s a dream for the youth,” said George. “Our aim is to provide a chance for school-going players and those who don’t have football in their schools to showcase their talent. Many of these players will be noticed by leading football schools and could even earn scholarships. It’s all about creating opportunities.”
The tournament will feature eight teams competing in a single-group league format. The top two teams will advance to the finals, promising intense competition and thrilling action. Representing the best football academies in Sri Lanka, the participating teams include Manchester Soccer Academy (Racecourse), Saunders Sports Club, Colombo Football Club, Java Lane Sports Club, Colombo Youth Football Academy, Barcelona Football Academy, and Manchester Soccer Academy (Rajagiriya).
With buddying players from top academies, the tournament aims to set new benchmarks for junior football in the country.
FFSL President Jaswar Umar highlighted the importance of the initiative. “The FFSL is committed to advancing youth football, and this tournament is a key part of that mission,” Umar said. “Through our partnership with Manchester Soccer Academy, we aim to create an environment where young athletes can refine their skills, gain valuable experience, and eventually contribute to the national football team.”
George, reflecting on his contributions to youth development, shared his pride in producing emerging talents. “So far, I’ve seen a dozen of my players move on to prominent football-playing schools in Colombo. This platform is their launchpad to bigger opportunities.”
The tournament also emphasizes career development, with George adding, “If these players shine here, they will not only attract the attention of top schools but also gain exposure that could lead to scholarships and a pathway to professional football.”
