KUCHING: The inaugural Utusan Borneo Cup this weekend promises to be an exciting affair, having attracted a total of 48 futsal teams from Kuching and Samarahan.
The tournament at Coneli Futsal Stadium at Matang Mile 6, off Jalan Batu Kawa-Matang will be conducted on a league basis with teams divided into groups of four. The top two teams will advance to the knockout stage.
Among the teams who have confirmed their participation are Rubean FC, High-skill United, Bumiputera A & B, Panna Nazario FT, FAM Union FT, JPBS Star FC, Sarawak Energy, N’ZEE FT, Auto FC, Kasohi FC A & B, Big Two, Kanoli FC B & C, Petronas KAFT, Hornbill United, Nasi Bajet FC, San Boo Yan, Scops, RB05, Barcatiga CF, Assar Refinery Team and A.A.B.H.
Others include Validus FC, Babola Team, Street City A & B, K.T.U A & B, Mali FC, A.B.G. FC, NYO FC, Panama Joga, Lintec FC, The Ambal Young Star FC, Giam Futsal Team, EVA FC, KOPO FC, Suria 5, Suriko FC, N.A.F. FC, Sempalona FC, PRBS FC, D Rieza A & B, Seven Lex and KLMJ FC.
The two-day tournament, organised by Utusan Borneo, is held to promote a healthy lifestyle in the community.
The league stage will be on Saturday (Dec 12) followed by the knockout stage, quarter-finals, semi-finals and final on Sunday.
Prize money for the top three teams are RM1200, RM800 and RM500.
A mystery prize awaits the tournament top goalscorer, best player, best goalkeeper and the team winning the ‘fair-play’ award.
All teams are advised to come early for registration. The first round of league matches starts at 9am.