MARGAO
Defending champions Betalbatim Sporting Club secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over last year's runners-up Don Bosco Oratory, Fatorda in a thrilling opening match of the 17th London Trophy Inter Village Football Tournament 2025 at the Goa Velha Sports Club organized event.
Betalbatim started strongly, pressing the Fatorda defense from the outset. Their early pressure paid off in the 8th minute with a powerful long-range strike that beat Fatorda goalkeeper Glen Fernandes. Don Bosco almost equalized in the 12th minute, but Roque Borges' header, after a spill by Betalbatim's Joyrin Braganza, hit the crossbar. Gladson Braganza missed a chance to extend Betalbatim's lead in the 23rd minute. Alfred Noronha of Don Bosco received a yellow card for a reckless tackle.
The second half saw Betalbatim's substitute, Nayab Khan, squander two clear chances, shooting weakly at Fernandes. Don Bosco leveled the score in the 55th minute through a powerful shot from veteran Roque Borges. However, Betalbatim quickly regained the lead in the 56th minute with a brilliant free-kick from Ashley Fernandes just outside the box. In a tense finale, Alfred Noronha's header struck the post, denying Don Bosco an equalizer.
Referee Jan Rodrigues cautioned Alfred Noronha, Roque Borges, and Ashley Araujo of Don Bosco, and Nayab Khan of Betalbatim. Gladson Braganza of Betalbatim Sporting Club was named Man of the Match.
