Gateway crowned U20 International Schools’ Football Champions once again

Gateway College Colombo retained their crown as U20 International Schools’ football champions with another dominant display in this year’s Under 20 Interinternational School’s Football Tournament held at the Gateway College Ratmalana Grounds recently.

Gateway cruised through the group stage beating Asian International school 17-0 and Elizabeth Moir 5-1. In the quarterfinals they defeated Lyceum Wattlala 4-1 before knocking eight goals past Royal Institute in the semi-finals. In a tough final against Alethea International, Gateway put on a brilliant display to overpower their opponents 5-1, with two goals each from striker Umar Shakil, captain Samunu Kaggodaarachchi and one from centre back Inas Iqbal.

Gateway’s well organised midfield and front line was on devastating form throughout the tournament scoring 39 goals in total. Some excellent movement and finishing saw Gateway striker Umar Shakil top score in the tournament with 14 goals, whilst the whole Gateway midfield chipped in, with Samunu contributing seven goals, six from Isa Fahim, four from Aqheel Anas and three from Brian Herath. Gateway’s defence was also extremely well organised and tough to break down and only conceded three goals throughout the entire tournament.

The Gateway players swept the awards with Umar Shakil being adjudged Player of the Tournament, as well as winning the Golden Boot with his 14 goals.

Gateway’s star midfielder, and current U19 national player, Samunu was adjudged Player of the Final and Anuk Dassanayake won Best Goalkeeper in his debut season.

Gateway’s continued rise and dominance

in schools football not only saw them pick up their sixth international schools championship in the last seven years, but also saw them reach the last eight of this year’s Papare All-island Division 1 Tournament.

Gateway College Colombo is currently the first and only International School playing All-island Division 1.