THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) football club celebrated their Guyana Football Federation-KFC Elite League Cup title success on January 1st, triumphing over Western Tigers following a riveting 8-7 penalty shootout at the Police Progressive Youth Club (PPYC) ground in Kingston, Georgetown.

Hundreds witnessed the thrilling clash between the league’s foremost contenders, on Monday evening, in the first match of 2024.

With their eyes set on the trophy, cash rewards, and the prestige of becoming this year’s first champions, the players of both teams walked onto the pitch with determination and focus.

Throughout the match, their defensive prowess was on full display, creating an impenetrable barrier that made scoring a daunting task. Despite numerous substitutions made by both teams, when the final whistle blew and overtime concluded, the scoreboard remained locked at 0-0 and it was on to penalties.
Both teams exhibited exceptional skill during the shootout, enduring a thrilling exchange that stretched across 15 penalties.

In the end, GDF, winners of the 2023 KFC Elite League Season Five, emerged victorious, claiming an 8-7 win in the thrilling penalty shootout and adding more silverware to their collection.

In a post-game interview, GDF midfielder, Chris Macey, thanked all their supporters and highlighted that it was their swift, attacking style that prevented Western Tigers from scoring, leading to a goalless official game.

Western Tigers’ Daniel Wilson who played central midfield said his team went into the game with a strategy to, “Keep the ball and be more patient (but) at the end of the day, penalty kicks are anybody’s game.”

The champions claimed a grand prize of $1.5 million in cash, while the valiant runners-up, Western Tigers, secured $1 million for their efforts.

In a riveting showdown for third place, the Guyana Police Force secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Buxton United. The first half remained goalless despite numerous close attempts.

It was Pernel Schultz of the Guyana Police Force who broke the deadlock in the 61st minute, setting the tone for his team’s dominance. Neron Barrow swiftly followed with another goal in the 69th minute, and Nicholas McArthur’s electrifying strike in the 86th minute sealed a resounding victory for the Guyana Police Force.

The Guyana Police Force clinched the third-place cash prize of $500,000, while Buxton United secured the fourth-place reward of $250,000.