Two thrilling semi-finals filled with late drama, passionate supporters and high-stakes football have set the stage for a historic showdown in the inaugural Blackheart Saint Lucia Football Association (SLFA) U20 Knockout Football Tournament.
Vieux Fort South and La Clery have secured their places in the tournament’s first-ever championship match after emerging victorious from a weekend of intense competition that showcased some of Saint Lucia’s brightest young football talent.
Vieux Fort South booked their place in the final on Saturday after silencing a vocal home crowd at the Soufriere Mini Stadium with a determined 2-1 victory over tournament hosts Soufriere. The result ended Soufriere’s impressive run and moved Vieux Fort South one step closer to making history.
If Saturday’s semi-final delivered excitement, Sunday’s encounter at the Francis “Baba” Lastic Mini Stadium in Gros Islet produced even more drama.
La Clery appeared destined for elimination before producing a dramatic equalizer in the dying moments of the match against Gros Islet to level the score at 1-1 just before the final whistle. With neither side able to break the deadlock during regulation time, the contest moved to a penalty shootout.
In a tense battle from the spot, La Clery held their composure to edge Gros Islet 5-4 and secure the second berth in the championship match.
The victories now set up a highly anticipated Grand Final between Vieux Fort South and La Clery on Saturday, June 20, at the Soufriere Mini Stadium.
Kick-off is scheduled for 9:00 p.m., with both teams chasing a winner’s package valued at $45,000 in cash and prizes, as well as the distinction of becoming the first champions of the Blackheart SLFA U20 Knockout Football Tournament.
Before the championship encounter, football fans will also be treated to a third-place playoff at 7:00 p.m., where Soufriere and Gros Islet will battle for a share of a $15,000 prize pool.
Since its launch, the inaugural tournament has captured the attention of football supporters across Saint Lucia, providing a platform for the island’s emerging talent while living up to its slogan, “Where Future Legends Rise.”
With a championship title, significant prizes and history on the line, organisers are expecting a strong turnout as supporters from across the island converge on Soufriere for what promises to be a memorable night of youth football.
