The third annual Diplomatic Corps Cup kicks off on Wednesday night, with a record 253 players to take part in the tournament at Hawker Football Centre.

Featuring teams from embassies and high commissions across the Capital, 19 teams have been split into two groups, to compete across eight weeks of regular competition, before finals begin on June 23.

With last year’s tournament cancelled due to COVID-19, Game Development Coordinator Brandon Stroud said it’s fantastic to have it up and running in 2021.

“We have had a record amount of interest shown in this year’s Diplomatic Corps Cup,” he said.

“It’s a really great initiative that brings together community and culture, while also expanding the reach of football, in a fun and inclusive environment.”

Pool A | France (Les Bleus), Korea (Korea Red Devils), Nepal Team 1, Lebanon (Canberra Cedars FC), Sudan, Qatar, Capital Football, England (It’s Coming Home), Russia (Red Machine)

Pool B | USA, Jordan (Alnashama), Europe, Malaysia, Turkey, Palestine, Nigeria (419 United), Ecuador (Latinos FC), Nepal Team 2, DFAT Global Rovers

Find the full fixture for the 2021 Diplomatic Corps Cup, here