Football

Organisers introduce participants of the VSL-S1 at a press conference on December 1 in Hà Nội. The tournament will take place on December 7-14 in Nha Trang. Photo courtesy of Vietfootball

HÀ NỘI — The first professional seven-a-side football tournament for students will be held this month in the beach city of Nha Trang, Khánh Hòa Province.

The Việt Nam Student Football League (VSL) season 1 will see the participation of 12 universities and colleges from December 7-14.

Teams will be divided into three groups and compete in round robin format. The winner of each group and the best second-place team will advance to the semi-finals.

According to the organisers, it is the first time a tournament for students will be held professionally.

"It is a tournament which I believe will contribute to the development of Việt Nam football. It not only promotes the sport among students but also creates a healthy environment in university and colleges," said Nguyễn Hồng Minh, deputy director of the Việt Nam Sports Administration.

Speaking at a press conference, Nguyễn Ánh Tuyết, a representative of VNPay, said the company was happy to financially support the tournament.

"We hope to help build a good and safe playing environment for students to show off their talents on the field," said Tuyết.

"Such tournaments for young people will help connect the community and spread positive energy among people and push the development of Việt Nam sport in general," she added.

The winner of the league will receive VNĐ60 million (US$2,500). Runners-up will take VNĐ40 million and VNĐ20 million, respectively.

Organisers will also present awards for best scorer, MVP, best goalkeeper, and best coach.

Among the title favourites are Foreign Trade University, National Economic University, Nha Trang University and Văn Lang University.

The tournament, co-organised by Vietfootball Company and VTVcab, will be aired live on VTVcab's channels and social network platforms. VNS