Bettomax Champions Cup seen as remedy to match-fixing, says Borough FC president

Published: August 29, 2025

MONROVIA — Borough FC President Sylvanus Morris has hailed the launch of the Bettomax Champions Cup as a “perfect remedy” to the problem of match-fixing in Liberian football.

The preseason tournament is the result of a three-year partnership between the Liberia Football Association and betting company Bettomax. It features the top eight clubs from the previous league season in what organizers say will be a highly competitive showcase.

Fighting Match-Fixing

Morris said the initiative addresses one of Liberian football’s long-standing challenges.

“The move by Bettomax is a good solution,” Morris told reporters. “Technicians conducted a feasibility study to see how best to curtail, if not eliminate, match-fixing from our league. Bettomax could not have done it any better.”

The competition carries a lucrative prize structure: $10,000 for the winner, $5,000 for second place, $3,500 for third, and $3,000 for fourth. The remaining four teams will receive $2,000 each.

According to Morris, the incentives will fuel stronger competition across the league.

“Every team will have to fight for their space and finish in the top eight to qualify,” he said. “That alone will raise the level of competition.”

Borough’s Rise

Borough FC has already secured a semifinal spot after finishing sixth in last season’s league. The club received $3,000 in support and currently tops Group B with six points and three goals scored without conceding.

“We started just a few days before the tournament with new faces, but our performance has been encouraging,” said Morris, a former Borough player.

Borough faces Freeport FC on Sunday, with Morris expressing confidence his side can top the group and face what he described as a “weaker side” from Group A in the semifinals.

Rebranding and Player Moves

Morris also disclosed plans to formally launch Borough FC following its recent name change from Global Pharma. He said the rebrand fulfills a long-awaited dream for residents of the Municipal Borough of New Kru Town, who now have ownership of the club.

He praised captain Melvin Brapoh for his leadership and commitment but confirmed the departure of key players, including goalkeeper Abdullah Koulibaly and defender Karleo Anderson, to LPRC Oilers. While criticizing Oilers’ recruitment drive, Morris insisted Brapoh would stay.

“Even with Oilers targeting him, he will not leave,” Morris said. “He has too much passion and commitment to Borough FC.”