The Eastern Football Association (EFA) 2025 tournament witnessed intense quarterfinal action on November 2, with reigning champions Malabar Youngstars securing a hard-fought 2-0 extra-time victory over Wallerfield FC at the Arima Velodrome. The match remained scoreless during regulation time, but Malabar Youngstars showcased their championship pedigree in extra-time, with Kendell Boneo and Jeremiah Williams delivering crucial goals to seal their semifinal berth. Williams, last year’s Man of the Match in the EFA final, once again proved pivotal in the team’s success. Wallerfield FC, who finished fourth in Group B, put up a valiant effort but ultimately fell short. In another quarterfinal clash at the same venue, Athletic United triumphed over Eastern Connect FC in a dramatic penalty shootout (7-6) after a 1-1 draw in regulation and extra-time. Eastern Connect took an early lead through Avery Cabralis, but Marcus Griffith equalized for Athletic United, setting the stage for the nail-biting shootout. Meanwhile, at the Phase 2 La Horquetta Recreation Ground, FC Maloney dominated Heatwave with a commanding 4-1 victory, thanks to goals from Gary Bart, Isaiah Edwards, Saleem Henry, and Kerry Mitchell. In the other La Horquetta quarterfinal, CPC Athletic International Academy (AIA) edged out CG Poseidon 2-1, with Dalon Sankar and Isaiah Isaac scoring the decisive goals. The semifinals, scheduled for November 9 in La Horquetta, will see FC Maloney face Athletic United at 5 pm, followed by Malabar Youngstars versus AIA at 7 pm. The 2025 EFA champions will receive a $15,000 prize, with $10,000 and $5,000 awarded to the second and third-placed teams, respectively.
EFA holders Malabar Youngstars sneak into semis with extra-time win
