Chung Global ‘Champion of Champions’ Futsal: Semifinal round set on this evening, final set for Saturday

All roads would be leading to the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue this evening to witness spectacular games that would determine which teams would emerge as contestants in the final of the inaugural Chung Global ‘Champion of Champions’ Futsal Championship.
Giant killers North Ruimveldt would be battling North East La Penitence and Gold is Money would be opposing Stabroek Ballers in two titanic semifinal encounters.
The first encounter, which transpires at 20:00hrs, would pit North Ruimveldt against North East La Penitence in a battle of the proverbial “dark horses”.
North Ruimveldt has rightly earned the initial moniker of giant killer, following unexpected wins that resulted in Sparta Boss and Back Circle exiting the tournament.

A rigid high-energy defence has primarily been responsible for North Ruimveldt’s success, and they have conceded only twice, despite facing notable challenges. On the offensive front, this youthful unit has surprised spectators following 10 conversions, four of which came in the previous elimination round, which highlights a team that has the required tools on both ends.
North Ruimveldt’s opponent, North East La Penitence, have displayed such efficiency and discipline that were never hallmarks of their traditional playing style.
This had led to an unbeaten record and notable victories against the likes of Back Circle and Team Cruel.
In terms of offence, North East have recorded 13 conversions, which is the most in the entire event. In terms of defense, they have conceded only once, which is the joint best record in the tournament, and further solidifies their status as statistically the best team.
Meanwhile, Gold is Money will oppose the Stabroek Ballers in what can be considered a virtual final. Their action starts at 21:00h.
The only remaining traditional giant of the format, Gold is Money has been tested throughout the event. In terms of their numbers, Gold is Money has tallied 11 goals in their four matches, which is indicative of a team that has offensive quality.
However, question marks remain on the defensive end, as they have conceded four times, which is the most among the remaining teams.

Improved performance would be needed if they are to defeat Stabroek Ballers, arguably the most balanced team in the tournament.
Not only are Stabroek Ballers proficient, but they possess the joint best defensive record, with only a solitary conversion, which occurred in their first match of the tournament. They have since yet to concede. On the offensive side, Stabroek Ballers have scored eight times, three of which transpired in their previous match.
According to tournament coordinator Troy Lambert, “This tournament has certainly lived up to its billing. We wanted to provide and produce a tournament that was extremely competitive from day one, and we have delivered that without question. The evidence is irrefutable, as there are three teams that are yet to make a major futsal final in the semifinal round, with Gold is Money (being) the only team standing from the traditional giants. This shows that the other teams are improving at a tremendous rate, and the fans are genuinely unsure which teams will make the final, as there is no Back Circle, Bent Street, or Sparta Boss remaining.”

He further said, “I expect a pulsating semifinal round, as the teams know what is at stake, not only in terms of the prizes, but the opportunity to win a major championship and solidify their status as powerhouses going forward. A winner simply cannot be picked based on what has occurred throughout the event, and that is great for the game and the fans, who I expect to flock to the venue.”
Before the semifinal matches begin, two exhibition matches would be staged featuring U17 and women’s teams.
The winner of this tournament, which culminates on Saturday, would pocket $1M and the championship trophy, while the second-, third-, and fourth-placed finishers would receive $500,000, $300,000, and $200,000 respectively, along with the corresponding accolade.
On the individual side, prizes would be given to the highest goal-scorer, most valuable player, best defender, and best goalkeeper respectively.
Day 5 Semifinals: Wednesday, November 13th
20:00hrs: Stabroek Ballerz vs Gold is Money
21:00hrs: North East La Penitence vs North Ruimveldt