The Diplomatic Corps Cup Grand Final has seen Sudan take out the 2021 title for a second time, following a thrilling 1-0 win over Palestine.

Both sides put up a strong and passionate fight at Hawker Football Centre on Wednesday night, with the only goal coming in the first half from a determined Sudanese team.

This year’s Cup saw a record 253 players take part, with 19 teams battling it out each week.

Game Development Coordinator Brandon Stroud said he was very impressed with the overall quality of competition and is looking forward to an even bigger 2022.

“All 19 teams put up a really solid performance throughout the tournament,” he said.

“The semi-final was a fantastic spectacle between Turkey, Russia, Palestine and Sudan. And then to see Sudan and Palestine put up a really fair contest was a great way to end the tournament.

“What we love about the Diplomatic Corps Cup is the enthusiasm from the crowd. Music, drums, singing and sometimes dancing, with people from all age ranges and cultures coming together, united through football.”