Trinidad & Tobago League Cup

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First Citizens Cup Wikipedia

The Trinidad and Tobago League Cup, or commonly known as the First Citizens Cup for sponsorship reasons, is the League Cup style football competition open for Trinidad and Tobago teams competing in the country's TT Pro League. Similar to the FA Trophy, it is played on a knockout (single elimination) basis in September and October towards the beginning of each Pro League season. Unlike the FA Trophy, where 36 teams enter each season from the top three tiers of the Trinidad and Tobago football league system and the Secondary Schools Football League, only teams from the TT Pro League compete in the league cup. The knockout tournament was inaugurated in 2000 and is currently sponsored by First Citizens Bank. Although the league cup is one of the three major domestic trophies attainable by Trinidad and Tobago league teams, it is perceived as a lower priority than the league championship and the FA Trophy. The current theme is Where Winners Reign, with TT$110,000 to the winner, TT$20,000 to the runners-up, semifinal winners receive TT$7,000, quarterfinal winners receive TT$5,000 and Play-off round winners receive TT$3,000.

W Connection is the most successful club in the league cup having won the competition eight times, including five consecutive cup titles in 2004–08 and are the current holders of the league cup having defeated Defence Force in the 2017 final.

History

The competition began in 2000, under the name of the League Cup, with San Juan Jabloteh winning the inaugural tournament by defeating Defence Force 1–0 at Marvin Lee Stadium. In 2001, First Citizens Bank began to sponsor the league cup and was officially branded the First Citizens Cup. W Connection and Defence Force claimed their club's first cup title in 2001 and 2002 respectively. The San Juan Kings became the first club to win the title twice having won the league cup again in 2003. W Connection were crowned champions for five consecutive years in 2004–08. However, in 2009, Defence Force claimed their second title and their first trophy in six years with a 1–0 win over Joe Public. The Eastern Lions exacted revenge by defeating Defence Force 3–0 on penalties after the match ended 1–1 the following year in 2010 to claim their first league cup title. Caledonia AIA claimed two consecutive league cup titles in 2011 and 2012.

The Trinidad & Tobago League Cup is an exciting and highly anticipated soccer tournament held annually in the beautiful Caribbean nation of Trinidad and Tobago. This prestigious competition showcases the immense talent and passion for the sport that exists within the country.

The tournament features teams from various regions of Trinidad and Tobago, including both professional and amateur clubs. It serves as a platform for these teams to compete against each other and demonstrate their skills, while also fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie within the soccer community.

The Trinidad & Tobago League Cup is known for its high level of competitiveness and intense matches. The participating teams battle it out on the field, showcasing their technical abilities, tactical prowess, and physical strength. The matches are filled with thrilling moments, breathtaking goals, and nail-biting finishes, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats throughout the tournament.

The tournament follows a knockout format, with teams facing off in a series of matches until a champion is crowned. The matches are held in various stadiums across Trinidad and Tobago, providing fans with the opportunity to witness the action live and support their favorite teams.

The Trinidad & Tobago League Cup not only provides entertainment for soccer enthusiasts but also serves as a platform for young and aspiring players to showcase their talents and catch the attention of scouts and coaches. It has been a stepping stone for many players to further their careers and represent their country at the international level.

Beyond the soccer matches, the tournament also offers a vibrant atmosphere with music, food, and cultural festivities. Fans from all walks of life come together to celebrate the sport and the rich cultural heritage of Trinidad and Tobago.

Overall, the Trinidad & Tobago League Cup is a thrilling and highly anticipated soccer tournament that showcases the immense talent and passion for the sport within the country. It brings communities together, fosters healthy competition, and provides a platform for players to shine on the national stage.