GFF to kick off first-ever Elite League Cup on February 14 at NTC

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has announced the launch of its Elite League Cup, a new senior men’s competition, which will kick off on Saturday, February 14, at the GFF National Training Centre (NTC), Providence, East Bank Demerara.

“The Elite League Cup forms a key part of the GFF’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the domestic football calendar by increasing meaningful competitive opportunities for elite players and clubs, while creating a structured pathway for player development and national team selection,” the GFF said.

The inaugural Elite League Cup will be contested by nine Elite League clubs, drawn into three groups of three for the round-robin phase of the tournament.

Following group play, teams will advance to the knockout stage, culminating in the semi-finals, third-place playoff and final.

All matches will be hosted at the GFF National Training Centre, providing a centralised and professional environment for competition.

Opening double-header (February 14)

• Guyana Defence Force vs Fruta Conquerors from 18:30h
• Guyana Police Force vs Den Amstel from 21:00h

At the conclusion of the first match, fans will also be treated to the traditional opening march pass, officially signaling the commencement of the Elite League Cup.

The GFF said: “The Elite League Cup is a newly introduced competition, established to ensure that Elite League clubs and players benefit from greater competitive match exposure each season. Under the restructured domestic calendar, the 2026/2027 season and beyond will see Elite League clubs and players participate in up to 32 competitive matches annually, representing a 45% increase in high-value game time for the nation’s top footballers. This expansion is a critical step in improving player performance, match readiness, and long-term development.” 

Prize Package

The Elite League Cup features a robust prize structure inclusive of cash awards, trophies, medals, and incentives for outstanding individual performances:

• Champion: G$1 million
• Runner-up: G$700,000
• Third: G$500,000
• Fourth: G$300,000

In addition to competition honours, the Elite League Cup will serve as a key scouting platform for Golden Jaguars Head Coach Thomas Dooley and his Technical Support Staff, as they continue to identify, assess, and prepare players for national team duties.

“The GFF encourages football fans across Guyana to come out and experience the electric atmosphere at the National Training Centre, and to support the young men who continue to dedicate their time, energy, and discipline to honing their skills, many with the aspiration of proudly representing Guyana on the international stage,” the GFF added.

The Elite League Cup promises high-intensity football, emerging talent, and a vibrant match day experience as a new chapter in Guyana’s domestic football calendar begins.