Standard Chartered Bank has officially launched the 7th edition of the highly anticipated Standard Chartered Cup, a 5-a-side futsal tournament that not only celebrates the Bank’s partnership with Liverpool FC but also offers participants a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The grand prize for the tournament winner is an all-expenses-paid trip to Anfield Stadium in England, where they will watch Liverpool FC face off against Arsenal FC in a Premier League match.
This year’s edition of the SC Cup is scheduled for November 30, 2024, at the Kenya School of Monetary Studies grounds in Nairobi, where amateur football teams will come together to battle it out on the futsal pitch. It promises to be an exciting event as 40 corporate teams, including those from Standard Chartered’s corporate clients, SME banking entities, Liverpool FC fans, and media partners, compete for the coveted prize.
A Dream Experience for Football Fans
The winning team will enjoy an extraordinary experience in Liverpool, which includes attending a live Premier League match at Anfield. As part of the prize, the team will also participate in a training session at the renowned Liverpool FC Academy, guided by an LFC legend. In addition to the football experience, the winners will also have the chance to tour the club’s prestigious museum and visit The Beatles Story exhibition truly making it a dream journey for football and music enthusiasts alike.
Joyce Kibe, the Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand, and Marketing for Kenya and Africa, expressed her excitement about the event, stating, “I am extremely proud of our partnership with Liverpool FC, which enables us to work together to create and deliver unique, money-can’t-buy experiences such as this. This year, we will be hosting 40 client teams who will battle for the chance to win the grand prize.”
Kibe also urged corporates to seize the opportunity, as participation is by invitation only and on a first-come, first-served basis. “I want to thank all the past participating organizations and our media partners for supporting us on this journey,” she added.
Tournament Format and Rules
The SC Cup follows a competitive yet fun 10-minute, 5-a-side futsal format that allows teams to show off their skills in a fast-paced environment. All teams will consist of seven amateur players, with five on the field and two substitutes. A crucial stipulation for eligibility is that players must not have been involved in professional or semi-professional football for the past three years. This ensures that the tournament remains accessible to amateur footballers and emphasizes the fun and camaraderie of the competition.
The tournament will be played in a group-stage format, where teams will compete in a round-robin style. The top two teams from each group will then advance to the knockout rounds, with the ultimate prize on the line in the final match.
Building Stronger Connections
The SC Cup is more than just a football tournament; it serves as a powerful tool for strengthening relationships between Standard Chartered Bank and its clients. It provides a platform for clients, business partners, and employees to connect through their shared passion for football. The tournament’s unique format offers a blend of competition and entertainment, creating a memorable experience for all participants.
Kibe emphasized this point, noting that the tournament is part of the Bank’s ongoing efforts to celebrate its strong global network. “The SC Cup has become more than just a tournament. It’s an experience that strengthens our connections with clients and celebrates our shared passion for football, while showcasing our global footprint and network capability,” she said.
The Countdown Begins
As the SC Cup edges closer, excitement is building among corporate clients and football enthusiasts alike. Teams are gearing up to bring their A-game to the field, knowing that the stakes are higher than ever before. The opportunity to watch Liverpool FC live at Anfield, coupled with the chance to meet LFC legends, is a rare and thrilling reward that will motivate every player to give their best.
In conclusion, the 7th edition of the Standard Chartered Cup is not only an exciting futsal tournament but also a celebration of football, partnerships, and global connections. With the winning team set to embark on a dream trip to Anfield, the event promises to be an unforgettable experience for all involved. Whether you’re a player or a spectator, this is one sporting event you won’t want to miss.
