Piala Belia
The Piala Belia is a youth football competition for under-18 players in Malaysia. The competition consists of youth squads from clubs competing in the Malaysian football league system and sports schools under the Football Association of Malaysia. It exists alongside the developmental competition for under-21 players, the Piala Presiden.
History
Since its inception in 2008, the Piala Belia has been a major tournament for under-19 players. In 2009 to 2011, the competition was combined with the Piala Presiden. In 2015 the format of the competition was changed to a league format.In 2016, the tournament format was also changed with the clubs being divided into two groups and played a round-robin leg, with four top clubs from each group at the end of the season qualifying for the playoff round to determine the champion. The final match for the cup is broadcast by Astro Arena.
Starting from 2023, the Piala Belia will only allow under-18 players. The reason of changing the age limit is because to be in line with the age limit cycle for Asian Football Confederation competitions.
Results
- Starting in 2023, the Piala Belia age limit will decrease from the age of 19 to 18.