Rovers FC is thrilled to announce their return to the prestigious Madewis Cup in Istres, France, from May 30th to June 2nd, 2024. This year, Rovers will be fielding teams in both the U11 (born 2013) and U12 (born 2012) age categories, providing an even greater opportunity for their young Seychellois players to compete against top international competition.

The Madewis Cup is a renowned youth football tournament that brings together over 12,000 players aged 6 to 13 from across the globe. The tournament features qualifiers throughout France, with winners joining international professional clubs at the Super Final.

In 2023, Rovers FC participated in the U10 category, achieving an impressive 6th place finish against teams like Olympique de Marseille, Olympique Lyonnais, and Ajaccio. This year, Rovers FC is expanding its participation to include both its U11 and U12 teams, reflecting the academy’s continued growth and success.

Rovers FC is committed to providing its players with a pathway to professional football. By participating in international tournaments like the Madewis Cup, Rovers players gain invaluable experience competing against the best young talent in the world, including this year’s confirmed participants such as AC Milan, Benfica, Galatasaray, and FC Dallas. 

Following their participation in the Madewis Cup last year, the Rovers academy programme saw the U11 and U12 selections spend the current 2023/24 season competing in the U13 National League in Seychelles, playing against players one to two years their senior. This strategic decision was taken to provide them with stiffer competition and ensure they are more prepared to compete against the world’s best.

As the final preparation for the Madewis Cup the two teams will have a week-long intensive training camp in France. This crucial pre-tournament phase will see them training and playing test matches alongside Olympique de Marseille and other top regional clubs and academies. 

This continued exposure to high-level international football is paramount for the young Seychellois players as they once again represent Rovers and their nation on the world stage.

For more information about the Rovers academy programme and the Madewis Cup, please contact academy@roversfc.sc or (+248) 2591018.