MARGAO
Hosts United Club of Verna got the better of Navelim Sporting 5-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout to secure a place in the final of the 1st Fernando Abranches Memorial Trophy 2025, at the Verna Panchayat Ground.
The game began with intense action, and Verna’s Clive almost put his team ahead in the sixth minute, but Navelim Sporting’s defense held firm to deny the early lead. Despite relentless attacking from both sides throughout regulation time, neither team managed to score, and the match ended 0-0, heading into a penalty shootout.
In the shootout, United Club of Verna maintained their composure, with Fulgancio, Jayson, Clive, and Roydon all converting their penalties flawlessly. Navelim Sporting’s Noah, Aden, and Ronaldo kept the contest alive with successful penalties, but they ultimately fell short.
Jayson Fernandes was named the Star of the Match for his outstanding performance, receiving the accolade from Eli Da Costa, a former Sesa Goa player.
