Gateway College Colombo once again asserted its dominance in international schools’ football by retaining the U18 International Schools Football Championship for the third consecutive year. Hosted by Royal Institute, the tournament was played at the Moragasmulla Grounds from January 27 to February 15.

The Gateway U18s were rarely troubled during the tournament, with their backline not conceding a single goal for the second consecutive year. Gateway’s dominance and control of the game stemmed from their strong midfield, which rarely lost possession and dictated the tempo, forcing opponents into their own half for most of the tournament. Much of the attacking threat came from U17 Sri Lankan national player Ahmed Hijaazy, who was adjudged Player of the Tournament.

Gateway Colombo started the tournament strongly, emerging as group champions after defeating Gateway Kandy 2-0, Royal Institute 3-0, and Lyceum Panadura 4-0. In the quarter-finals, they overcame the British School 2-0 before beating Elizabeth Moir 2-0 in the semi-finals and Stafford International 1-0 in the final. Rehan Jayasinghe was the top scorer for Gateway with six goals. Gateway College continues to lead the way in international schools’ football, with their U16, U18, and U20 teams being crowned champions for the last three years. The school has also made significant strides at the national level, with three members of its current U18 squad representing Sri Lanka at the U17 SAFF Championship 2024.