MARGAO
Navelim Villagers Union secured a hard-fought 4-3 victory over Benfica Youth Club in a thrilling match at the 25th All Goa Our Lady of Merces 8-a-side inter-village football tournament, hosted by Sirlim Sports Club at Chinchinim Church ground.
The match was a closely contested affair with both teams adopting a cautious approach in the early stages. Benfica broke the deadlock in the 11th minute through Sachin Borker, but Navelim responded quickly with an equalizer from Ronaldo Pereira just two minutes later. Pereira doubled Navelim's lead before halftime, giving his team a 2-1 advantage.
The second half witnessed a flurry of goals as Benfica fought back determinedly. Sachin Borker leveled the score in the 48th minute, but Navelim regained the lead through Ronaldo Pereira's hat-trick goal. Benfica reduced the deficit once again through Johan, but Navelim sealed the victory with a powerful long-range strike from Venito Costa in the 56th minute.
Despite Benfica's late efforts, Navelim held on to claim a crucial three points.
