Trivandrum team clinch GCC Cup, a huge hit among expatriates

Dubai: A football fest recently at the Dubai Police Officers Club Stadium in Al Jaddaf saw a massive turnout. The event was the inaugural GCC Cup 2025 that saw eight teams from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar and Malta participate. The event was unique in several ways. It was the first ever Indian expatriate league of its kind on an international stage.

The tournament held with the support of Dubai Police's 'Positive Spirit' initiative and Dubai Sports Council saw Team Coastal Trivandrum Football Club (UAE) emerge the champions after defeating Top Ten FC (Oman) in the final.

"The tournament was fantastic and was held in good spirit. We are happy to host so many international teams. After the successful completion of the first edition we now looking forward to have the second edition at a larger scale," said Amal Gireesh of the organising committee.

The tournament saw players from Indian expatriate communities across the Gulf, with strong participation from Kerala-based talents known for their flair and football culture. The tournament also had star players in each team who have represent the Indian Super League, I-League and Santosh Trophy along with international players.

“This was more than a football event. The tournament sents a message that through sport the youth can lead a healthier lifestyle and support a strong social message that says 'Say no to drugs, yes to game," said Finas, the tournament convener.

The winning team took home a cash prize of Dh 25,000 while the runners-up team won Dh10,000

"We are proud to be crowned champions of the inaugural edition. This first-of-its-kind event, held in Dubai, was exceptionally well-organised and gave players across the region a platform to shine. We’re honored to be part of a movement that uses sport for a greater cause," said Abhilash of the winning team.

On this occasion, Fatima Buhajeer, Chairperson of the Positive Spirit Council at Dubai Police, said this tournament coincided with the Year of Community and aligns with Dubai Police's strategic goals of enhancing community happiness and fostering a safe, resilient city. She stated, "We take great pride in the success of this tournament, which reflects the spirit of cooperation and fraternisation among the GCC communities. The tournament provides a wonderful opportunity to strengthen social and cultural connections and highlights the role of sports as an effective means of fostering communication between the communities and Dubai Police."