21st SIF-Rabi’a Tea Champions League kicks Off in Jeddah with Fanfare
The 21st edition of the Saudi Indian Football Forum (SIF) – Rabi’a Tea Champions League commenced in Jeddah, signaling a vibrant start to the highly anticipated tournament. The event, held at King Abdulaziz University Stadium, was inaugurated by Jeddah National Hospital Managing Director VP Muhammadali, marking a notable moment for the Indian football community in Saudi Arabia.
The opening ceremony was presided over by CIF President Baby Neelampra, with warm greetings extended by Al Abeer Managing Director Dr. ahmed Alungal and Rabia tea Marketing Director Abdul Nafi Kupinath. Support also came from afar, as Kerala Football Association President Nawaz Meeran offered his congratulations online. Nizam Mampad, the General Secretary, delivered a welcoming address, and Anwar Vallanchira, the Treasurer, provided the vote of thanks, setting a collaborative tone for the competition.
A notable feature of the inauguration was a spirited march past involving not only the 30 clubs registered with the CIF but also teams representing KMCC, OICC, make Seven, Ishal Kalavedi, Palakkad Association, and Alhuda Karate Academy. Ishal Kalavedi secured the first position in the march past, followed by the Palakkad Group in second, and Mech Seven in third. Adding to the spectacle, Noora Ayyub Karumara Vantur-known for her engaging football commentary in the Super League Kerala-captivated the audience with a freestyle football performance.
The tournament quickly transitioned into competitive play, with several matches concluding on the opening day. In a dominant performance in the B Division, Friends Juniors defeated bookat FC Soccer Freaks Seniors by a resounding score of 7-0. Muhammad Shihad, Naseef Anwar (with two goals), Muhammad Nihal (also with two goals), Ajmal Jaseem, and Rishal Shafi all contributed to the victory. Ajmal Jaseem was rightfully awarded the ‘Player of the Match’ for his performance.
Further action in the B division saw Newcastle FC triumph over ACCB B with a 2-1 victory. Goals from Mohammad Nibras and Mohammad Anees secured the win for Newcastle FC, while nizamuddin scored the lone goal for ACCB. Mohammad Nibraz of Newcastle FC earned the ‘Player of the Match’ recognition.
In the Wasiyaria A Division, FC Yambu edged out Sabine FC with a 2-1 win. Mohammad Ajnas and Dilshad Ahmed found the back of the net for FC Yambu, while Abdur Rahim scored for Sabine FC. Dilshad Ahmed of FC Yambu was named ‘Player of the Match’ for his contribution.
The event also saw the presence of numerous prominent figures including Mithun (RKG), Madon (Eastee), Saufar (reem Al Ula), Abdurrahman (Alharbi) Nalin (Charmas), Suneer (Arkas), Joy Mulan (Vijay Masala), VP Sheas Impala, Kabir Kondotty (Media forum), Sanoop (Eastee) Latif kapungal (N Comfort), VP Mustafa (KMCC), Junais (Navodaya), Shamseed (Sama Plastics), Mustafa Chellari (OICC), Hanifa Kadampot (Skymont) and Hifsurahman (SIF).A lucky draw concluded the day, with EP Muhsin and Unni Muhammad emerging as winners.
The 21st SIF-Rabi’a Tea Champions League promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent and sportsmanship,further solidifying the passion for football within the Saudi Indian community.
