THE Porus Football Festival, a highly anticipated six-week tournament, will reach its climax on Sunday at the Porus Community Centre in Manchester.

Football enthusiasts from across the island are expected to flock to next weekend’s culmination, as they have since the annual event started back in 2016.

After an intense round of semi-finals Radiator emerged victorious by dismissing Stars Acad with a 2-1 scoreline while Young Strikers secured their spot in the final by defeating Sala Allstars, also 2-1.

The stage is now set for an epic showdown between two teams busrting with talent, and spectators are no doubt in for a treat. The Radiator and Young Strikers title-decider will kick off at 8:30 pm.

The Porus Football Festival has captured the hearts of fans, and the final is expected to draw an even larger crowd this year. As testament to its growing reputation, former Reggae Boyz technical director, Brazilian Rene Simoes will be attending the event.

In addition to the main event, attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy a friendly celebrity match at 7:00 pm. Following last year’s successful edition, fans can once again witness a thrilling reunion of former Reggae Boyz including Theodore “Tappa” Whitmore and Walter “Black Pearl” Boyd, and they will go up against a team led by Proven boss Christopher Williams.

The night will end with an entertainment package featuring dancehall headliners Bounty Killa and Beenie Man.

According to Karam Prasad, organiser of the event, the festival honours community-level football with a splash of national vintage and music.

“We are thrilled to present the finals of the Porus Football Festival, which has grown exponentially since its inception in 2016. The overwhelming support and enthusiasm from football fans across Jamaica has made this tournament a true celebration of the sport.

“As we approach the final we anticipate an exhilarating showdown between Radiator and Young

Striker [as] both teams have displayed exceptional skills and teamwork throughout the tournament, and we can expect a fiercely contested match.

“We are also excited to bring back the friendly celebrity match, which was a huge hit last year. Football fans will have the opportunity to witness some of their favourite former Reggae Boyz players in action, adding a unique and entertaining element to the festival,” he said.