Gateway College Colombo once again demonstrated their dominance in the recently concluded Under-20 Inter-International Schools Football Tournament, held at Gateway College Ratmalana from October 25 to November 3. From the outset, Gateway showcased exceptional control, with their formidable midfield trio—Zaki Ashraff, Ahamed Hijaazy, and Aidan Perera—dictating possession. Their creative attacking play and relentless pursuit of goals resulted in an impressive 24 goals scored across the tournament, with Aidan Perera emerging as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals.
Goals were evenly distributed among the team, with midfielder Humaidh Irshad contributing five striker Dulina Wickremasinghe adding four, and Ahamed Hijaazy netting three. Defensively, Gateway was impeccable, as their backline remained unbreached throughout the tournament, securing their sixth consecutive championship title without conceding a single goal. The tournament began with Gateway asserting their dominance early, routing CIS Colombo 6-0 in their opening group game.
They then sealed the top spot in their group with a commanding 4-0 victory over Lyceum Wattala. The knockout stages saw Gateway maintain their scoring momentum, defeating Royal Institute 2-0 in the quarterfinals and overwhelming Gateway College Kandy 7-0 in the semifinals. The final was a one-sided affair, with Gateway cruising to a comfortable 5-0 victory over Stafford International School.
Gateway’s well-organised midfield and attacking line were in scintillating form throughout the competition. Ahamed Hijaazy was named Player of the Tournament for his commanding performances in midfield, while Zaki Ashraff was awarded Player of the Final. Aidan Perera clinched the Golden Boot, and goalkeeper Anuk Dassanayake earned the title of Best Keeper for his stellar displays between the posts.
Gateway College Colombo continues to reign as the International Schools football champions, having now secured eight Under-20 Championships in the last nine years. Additionally, for the second consecutive year, Gateway has completed the treble, finishing the season as the reigning Under-16, Under-18, and Under-20 International Schools Football Champions.
