Dubai, UAE – Mina Cup 2025 is officially set to return on 9th-14th April, promising an even bigger and better experience for young footballers, coaches, and fans. As the leading International youth football tournament in the Middle East, the event will bring together top academies and clubs from around the world to compete in a high-intensity, professional environment in Dubai.
The 2025 edition will feature elite teams from the UAE, GCC, Europe, Asia, Africa and North and South America, including returning champions and new challengers eager to leave their mark, while the local competition will be led by some of the strongest UAE and GCC-based football academies, including representatives from professional clubs and independent elite programs. The full lineup of participating teams includes:
UAE
- Empire FC
- La Liga Dubai
- La Liga Abu Dhabi
- Fursan Hispania
- Dubai Irish
- Manchester City Football School UAE
- Barça Academy
- Reds Football Academy
- FC Ole
- Go-Pro Sports FA Sharjah
- Al Jazira
- Al Nasr
- Shabab Al Ahli
United Kingdom
- Elite London Academy
- Norwich City FC
Scotland
- Rangers Soccer Academy
Northern Ireland
- Crusaders FC
Saudi Arabia
- Al Qadsiah
Kazakhstan
- Scaut FC
Jordan
- Inglezia FC
India
- Ara FC
Australia
- Football West Academy
- Melbourne City FC
Zambia
- Kafue Celtic FC
Brazil
- Corinthians SC
United States
- Columbus Crew
All tournament matches will once again be hosted at the state-of-the-art JA Sports Centre, which has proudly been the home of the Mina Cup since its inception. JA Resorts & Hotels also return as the tournament’s title partner, continuing their vital role in supporting the growth and prestige of the event.
Backing
With the continued backing of the Dubai Sports Council, Mina Cup 2025 aims to further cement the UAE’s position as a global hub for youth football development. The tournament draw was recently hosted at the Dubai Sports Council headquarters, highlighting the significance of the competition in the region’s sporting landscape.
Mina Cup is more than just a tournament—it’s an immersive experience for young players. For the first time in the tournament’s history, Mina Cup 2025 will kick off with a grand Opening Ceremony Parade at Riverland in Dubai Parks and Resorts, celebrating the diversity and spirit of youth football on a global stage.
– Leisure Day: International teams will get the chance to explore Dubai’s iconic landmarks, offering them a unique cultural experience beyond football.
– Coaches Forum: A special event for participating coaches and football professionals to exchange insights, discuss youth development, and network with global industry leaders.
The tournament will also once again be supported by Mina Cup Ambassadors Teddy Sheringham, former England international and Premier League legend, and Lucas Pimenta, a rising star in the UAE National Team, further elevating the event’s prestige.
With a lineup featuring some of the world’s top youth teams, Mina Cup 2025 is set to deliver intense, high-quality matches that will showcase the future stars of football. Scouts and club representatives from professional leagues will be in attendance, offering a valuable opportunity for young players to gain exposure on an international level.
Luke Joyce, Head of International Partnerships at Mina Cup, expressed his enthusiasm for this year’s event:
“Mina Cup has evolved into the most prestigious youth tournaments in the region, providing a world-class competitive experience while also offering unforgettable memories off the pitch. With new additions such as the Mina Cup Parade and the Coaches Forum, along with the strong support of the Dubai Sports Council, we are taking this event to the next level. We can’t wait to welcome the teams, fans, and football community to Dubai.”
Fans can be part of the excitement by attending the Mina Cup 2025 Opening Ceremony and tournament matches. Tickets are now available for purchase, allowing supporters to witness the next generation of football talent up close.
For tickets and official updates, visit www.theminacup.com or follow @MinaCup on social media.
