Both titles from the 2026 Saint Lucia International Masters Football Invitational are heading to the United States after Monday night’s finals at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground. Ballers Forever won the Over-40 division, while Pele Masters took the Over-50 title.
Ballers Forever advanced to the May 25 finals after defeating SSC Bimshire in the quarterfinals and Hope International of St Vincent & the Grenadines, both with 2-1 scores. In their final, they faced defending champions Trinidad & Tobago Defence Force Past Players, who beat Vieux Fort South 8-1 and St Francois Masters 4-0.
The defending champions scored first, with Concacaf record scorer and Saint Lucia men’s head coach Stern John finding the net. The challengers equalised 11 minutes into the second half with a Kendel Jagdeosingh penalty. Another penalty, eight minutes before the end, secured their win.
The senior match included the defending champions, Masters Reloaded, a local team with former international stars like Earl “Ball Hog” Jean, Titus “Titi” Elva and Andy “Butu” Jn Baptiste.
Masters Reloaded reached the final by beating Canada’s La Familia 3-2, thanks to an Earl Jean hat-trick. Pele Masters beat Dennery United FC 5-1.
The American side entered the final under protest, claiming that Masters Reloaded was fielding an unregistered player. In the event, their protest was of little account. A tense first half, including a lengthy injury stoppage, ended in a stalemate. But Basil Burke unleashed a rocket in the second half to seize the trophy for the visitors.
Former St Vincent & the Grenadines international Kendall Velox was named MVP of the Over-50 tournament. His Pele Masters teammate Trevor Isaac was chosen as best goalkeeper. Jagdeosingh earned the Over-40 MVP award.
“Over six unforgettable days, from May 20 to May 25, football legends from across the region and internationally came together in Saint Lucia to celebrate competition, camaraderie, culture and passion for the beautiful game,” said Veterans in Sport CEO Alvin Malaykhan. “Your energy, discipline, sportsmanship and support helped create an atmosphere that once again showcased the true spirit of Masters football and Caribbean unity.
“This tournament continues to evolve into one of the Caribbean’s premier Masters football and sports tourism experiences, and it is all possible because of you.”
