Eight teams will go head to head for honours at an ISFA 3-a-side tournament, set to take place on 6th June at the 3-a-side football ground in Buġibba. The International Street Football Association (ISFA) officially launched the competition last Saturday at a press conference held in Birkirkara.
Speaking at the launch, ISFA Director Maria Coppola stressed the importance of events like this in keeping the small-sided game alive and growing. She said the format encourages creativity and opens doors for players who might not otherwise get the chance to compete. Tournament ambassador James Almeida was also in attendance and spoke warmly about the rising standard of the competition.
Players Nigel Zammit, Omar Lamari and Ananel Sheiji were among those present at the launch. The three are part of one of the competing sides and made no secret of their excitement ahead of the event.
The eight teams taking part are: Eagles United, Santa Margherita AFC, Blancos FC, Bugibba FC, Birkirkara AFC, Shooting Stars FC, FC Nova Legends and FC Nova Legends B. The teams will be split into two groups of four, with each side playing three ten-minute matches in the group stage. The team that finishes top of each group will advance to the final.
There is plenty at stake beyond local bragging rights, however. The winning team will earn the right to represent Malta at the ISFA World Cup, which is due to be held in the Netherlands from 2nd to 7th September.
