Wikipedia - Liga de Elite
Liga de Elite (lit. 'Elite League'), previously known as Campeonato da 1ª Divisão do Futebol, is the top division of the Macau Football Association, created in 1973. The league features local players and professional foreign players. Due to the lack of football fields in Macau, most matches are played at the Estádio Campo Desportivo. As with Hong Kong, the league is separate from the mainland Chinese football league system. The league is generally played between January and July of each calendar year.
History
In the inaugural 2014 edition, Lam Pak, Lam Ieng and Kuan Tai all forfeited from the First Division before the start of the competition. Lam Pak and Lam Ieng withdrew due to the lack of backing from sponsors and Kuan Tai cited budget issues and could no longer afford to pay some of its players. To solve the problem of three sudden vacancies, the Macau Football Association clarified that the two clubs that were relegated in 2013, Kei Lun and MFA Development, were invited to remain, and an additional third team would come from the Second Division. After careful consideration by the MFA, no team from the Second Division was picked, being deemed not competitive enough for the First Division.
The tournament typically runs from late summer to spring, with clubs competing in a round-robin format, culminating in a thrilling championship playoff. Matches are held in iconic venues across Macau, providing fans with an electric atmosphere as they cheer for their favorite teams.
The Macau 1st Division not only highlights the skill and passion of local players but also serves as a vital platform for talent development, with many athletes aspiring to make their mark on the international stage. The league is known for its vibrant community engagement, drawing in fans of all ages and backgrounds, and contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of Macau.
As the tournament progresses, teams vie for the coveted championship title, with fierce rivalries and unforgettable moments that keep spectators on the edge of their seats. The Macau 1st Division is more than just a soccer league; it is a celebration of sport, community, and the spirit of competition in one of Asia's most dynamic regions.