Muscat – Excitement is building as preparations for the second edition of the much-awaited Soccer Carnival are in full swing. Organised by Mefriend, the digital platform of the Gulf Madhyamam group, the event promises two days of thrilling sports, vibrant cultural festivities, and family-friendly fun at the Bowsher Club Stadium in Muscat on April 17 and 18, 2025. Entry is free for all.

The upcoming edition will welcome a host of celebrity guests including Indian football star C.K. Vineeth, popular Malayalam action hero Antony Varghese (Pepe), and beloved entertainer Dane Davis, adding star power to an already jam-packed festival.

“This year, we are taking the Soccer Carnival to new heights, combining top-tier football action with rich cultural entertainment,” said Afzal Ahamed, Resident Manager of Gulf Madhyamam, during a press conference attended by key partners and sponsors.

A total of 16 ‘7’s’ football teams will battle it out for the prestigious ‘Crown of Muscat’ title. Organizers confirmed that the winning and runner-up teams will receive the largest prize money offered in Oman, while individual players will also be recognized with encouragement awards.

The stadium will be transformed into a festival ground, complete with over 20 food stalls offering authentic Kerala cuisine. Special sections will spotlight Malabar dishes and Kannur specialties, while live counters by top restaurants in Oman will serve a diverse culinary experience.

“Our goal is to celebrate sport and community. We want families to feel welcome and entertained,” said Shaiju Salahuddin, Marketing Manager of Gulf Madhyamam.

The second day of the carnival will be especially vibrant, featuring games, quiz competitions, face painting, shootouts, and spot contests tailored for children and women. Audience participation will be encouraged through interactive cultural performances and prize-winning competitions.

“Our vision was to create something that brings people together—through food, football, and fun,” added Saithali Athavanad, Program Convener of the Soccer Carnival.

Also present at the press conference were Haris Shamsudeen, Regional Marketing Manager of Nesto Hypermarkets, Binod Kumar Das, Marketing Manager of Lulu Exchange, and Muhammad Usman Fasil, Operations Manager of Foodlands Restaurant, all of whom expressed their enthusiasm for supporting this community-driven initiative.

With a star-studded guest list, competitive spirit, and something for every age group, the 2025 Soccer Carnival is set to be a spectacular celebration of sport, culture, and togetherness in Oman.