Eight teams will be taking part in the St Andrew’s Summer Friendship Cup which will be played between July 29 and August 13 at the Luxol Stadium.

The participating teams were split into two groups with Valletta, Tarxien Rainbows, Melita and Gżira United forming Group A while Sliema Wanderers, St Andrew’s, Fgura and Senglea Athletic will play in Group B.

Valletta face Tarxien in the opening match on July 29.

The top two teams in each section will progress to the semi-finals while the remaining four sides will feature in positional play-offs.

Lino Bartolo, the tournament organiser, told a news conference at the Luxol Stadium this week that the main aim behind the St Andrew’s Summer Friendship Cup is to give the participating teams the opportunity to gain much-needed playing time.

“At this time of the year all teams will be stepping up their preparations for the new season and this tournament will provide them with a good opportunity to gain match-fitness,” he said.

“Besides, all teams will also have the chance to have a closer look at their squad players in a competitive environment.”