By S. Siapha Mulbah
Paynesville Football Club has proudly announced the commencement of the third edition of the Paynesville Cup, which kicks off today, Monday, June 24, 2024. The tournament will be held at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex practice pitch, affectionately referred to as the club’s backyard.
This year’s edition is set to be an exciting and diverse event, featuring teams from Liberia and other regional countries, including Nigeria and Guinea. Including international teams offers a unique opportunity for participating clubs to scout and recruit new talent, strengthening their squads for the upcoming season and elevating the overall quality of football in Liberia.
Over the weekend, Hilary Sackie, President of Paynesville Football Club, alongside Melvin B. George, chairperson of the local organizing committee, confirmed the participation of Watanga, the reigning Liberia Football Association national first division league champions. Sackie emphasized the significance of the off-season program in enhancing the national league and nurturing high-caliber football in Liberia.
“This competition is designed to keep players engaged in football activities during the league break. We see the need to collaborate with any club interested in this process,” Sackie stated. He highlighted the inclusion of Matrice Football Club from Nigeria and AS Bages from Guinea, which will join ten Liberian clubs in vying for the cup.
Paynesville Football Club has generously agreed to cover the expenses for the international teams, including their feeding and accommodations. The twelve participating teams are divided into four zonal categories and will compete in a qualifier format. The top two teams from each zone will advance to the knockout stage.
The previous edition of the Paynesville Cup, held at the same venue, saw Heaven Eleven, another club from Paynesville, emerge victorious. Heaven Eleven is poised to defend their title as they gear up for the new league season.
The Paynesville Cup continues to play a pivotal role in the development of football in Liberia, providing a platform for talent identification and fostering a competitive spirit among clubs in the region.
Participating Teams and Groupings:
Group A: Global Pharma, Graceland, Heaven Eleven (defending champions)
Group B: Discoveries, Blackman Warrior, Real Muja Academy
Group C: Watanga FC, AS Bages (Guinea), Philadelphia Lone Star
Group D: Paynesville, Matrice FC (Nigeria), Paris
Opening Matches:
Global Pharma vs. Graceland (afternoon)
Discoveries vs. Blackman Warrior (evening)
The Paynesville Cup promises to be an exciting event, contributing significantly to the local football scene and providing valuable opportunities for teams and players alike, as disclosed by the organizing committee.
