MARGAO
United Club Seraulim secured a commanding 3-0 victory over United Club Benaulim to advance to the quarterfinals of the 30th Mandopa Cup football tournament, organized by Mandopa Sports Club, on Saturday.
The first opportunity to score came in the 10th minute when Swiston Rebello of Benaulim capitalized on an error near the halfway line. With only the goalkeeper to beat, he shot over the crossbar, missing a golden chance. Seraulim quickly responded in the 12th minute, with Mohammad Shaikh beating Benaulim's defense and goalkeeper to calmly slot the ball into the net, giving Seraulim a 1-0 lead.
Seraulim had two more chances to extend their lead, but Keith Rodrigues was unable to score in one-on-one situations. The first half ended with Seraulim leading 1-0.
After the break, Benaulim pushed for an equalizer, but Seraulim's goalkeeper denied efforts from Victor Fernandes and Junad Khan in the 36th and 40th minutes, respectively. As the match progressed, Seraulim sealed their victory with two more goals: Keith Rodrigues scored in the 42nd minute, followed by Gladston Braganza's goal in the 53rd minute.
Mohammad Shaikh of United Club Seraulim was named Man of the Match for his outstanding performance, with the award presented by Avelino Silva, General Secretary of the club.
