2009 Queen's Cup: Hallelujah FC Claims First Title
The 2009 Queen's Cup marked the 33rd edition of one of Thailand's most prestigious domestic football cup competitions. Returning after a hiatus since 2006—when Rajnavy Rayong FC took the trophy—the 2009 tournament brought together 22 teams in a high-stakes battle for glory. While Hanyang University holds the historical record as the most successful club with seven titles, the 2009 edition provided a stage for a new champion to emerge.
The tournament was structured to test both endurance and skill, beginning with regional group stages and culminating in a high-pressure final phase hosted in Chonburi.
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Key Facts
- Champions: Hallelujah FC (their first title).
- Runners-up: BEC Tero Sasana.
- Dates: 1 February to 22 February 2009.
- Participants: 22 teams.
- Venues: 5 host cities.
- Final Venue: Princess Sirindhorn Stadium, Chonburi.
Tournament Structure and Rules
The competition was divided into two distinct phases: the first phase (1–8 February) and the final phase (13–22 February). The format was designed to filter the best domestic talent before introducing international competition.
The First Phase
Twenty teams were divided into five groups, each based around a specific host team. To advance to the final phase, teams had to navigate a rigorous qualification process. While Chonburi FC received a bye directly to the final phase, other teams had to fight through the group stages.
Qualification Knockouts
On 8 February, the first and second-place finishers from each group faced off in one-off knockout matches. These matches determined which domestic sides would join the final stage at the Princess Sirindhorn Stadium.
The Final Phase
The final stage saw the addition of three foreign sides, increasing the level of competition. The remaining teams were split into two final groups (Group A and Group B), with the top performers advancing to the semi-finals and the eventual grand final.
Detailed Group Stage Results
The early stages of the tournament were spread across various municipalities, showcasing the breadth of Thai football talent.
| Group | Venue | Top Team | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group A | Nongprue Municipality Field, Pattaya | Pattaya United | 7 |
| Group B | Ayutthaya Stadium, Ayutthaya | PEA | 7 |
| Group C | Samut Songkhram Stadium | Samut Songkhram / Krung Thai Bank | 7 |
| Group D | Suphanburi Municipality Stadium | Royal Thai Army | 5 |
| Group E | Assumption College Sriracha Stadium | Osotsapa M-150 | 6 |
The Road to the Final
The final phase in Chonburi saw intense competition. In Group A, Chonburi FC dominated with 7 points, while BEC Tero Sasana secured their spot in the knockouts. In Group B, Pattaya United finished top of the table, followed closely by Hallelujah FC.
Semi-Finals
The semi-finals took place on 20 February, setting the stage for the championship match:
- BEC Tero Sasana defeated Pattaya United 3–0.
- Hallelujah FC defeated Chonburi FC via a penalty shootout (6–5) after a 1–1 draw.
The Grand Final
The tournament concluded on 22 February 2009. In a tightly contested match, Hallelujah FC secured a 1–0 victory over BEC Tero Sasana to claim their first-ever Queen's Cup title.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the 2009 Queen's Cup?
Hallelujah FC won the tournament, marking their first title in the competition's history.
Which team has the most Queen's Cup titles overall?
Hanyang University is the most successful club in the history of the competition, having won the title seven times.
Where was the final phase of the 2009 tournament held?
The final phase was held at the Princess Sirindhorn Stadium in Chonburi.
How many teams participated in the 2009 edition?
A total of 22 teams participated in the tournament.
Did any international teams play in the 2009 Queen's Cup?
Yes, three foreign sides entered the competition during the final phase.