The two teams which played in the finals of the football tournament in Dublin.
LONDON
For the very first time, the Goan Sports and Cultural Club (GSCC) Ireland organised a football tournament in Dublin on October 17, marking an exciting new chapter for Goan sports and community activities in Ireland.
A total of 12 teams participated in the tournament, with 11 teams representing different parts of Ireland and one team travelling from Wembley, UK.
A large crowd gathered to support the teams, with the cheering, enthusiasm, and friendly rivalry providing added excitement to the players, supporters, and everyone involved.
After the preliminary rounds, the two teams earning their places in the final were the Mixed Brothers and Cortalim Boys.
At the end of regular play, the score stood at 1–1. With neither side able to secure victory during normal play, the final went to a penalty shootout to decide the champions.
In the end, Mixed Brothers held their nerve and won the penalty shootout, securing the championship trophy.
“This was not just another football tournament; it was a celebration of our Goan identity, friendship, unity, and passion for the game we all love,” said Milla.
“It was wonderful to see teams coming together from different places, united by their shared love of football. The participation of the Wembley boys made the occasion even more special, demonstrating that the Goan community’s sporting spirit extends beyond borders.”
“Every team came prepared to give its best. The players demonstrated determination, teamwork, commitment, and a genuine competitive spirit throughout the tournament. While every team wanted to lift the trophy, the event was also about building friendships, strengthening community connections, and creating memories that will last for years to come.”
Acknowledging that football always produces a winner and a runner-up, Milla said the real victory is the opportunity to participate, compete, learn, and grow together as a community.
“What makes this event particularly special is that it could be the beginning of something much bigger for our Goan community in Ireland,” explained Milla.
“Sport has a wonderful way of bringing people together. It connects generations, builds friendships, encourages healthy competition, and allows our community to maintain its cultural identity while living abroad.”
“For our younger generation, events like this provide an opportunity to get involved in sport, develop their talents, build confidence, and remain connected to their Goan roots.”
“This is exactly the kind of community spirit we should encourage — reaching beyond geographical boundaries and bringing Goans together through sport and friendship. Hopefully, this first tournament will inspire more clubs and teams to participate in the coming years. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to see future tournaments featuring even more teams from across Ireland, the UK, and different parts of Europe?”
“With the right support, planning, and enthusiasm, this event could grow into a major annual gathering for Goan football enthusiasts.”
Milla praised the organisers, the Goan Sports and Cultural Club (GSCC) Ireland, for taking the initiative to organise this tournament.
“Organising a sporting event of this nature requires time, effort, teamwork, dedication, and the support of many people behind the scenes. Bringing 12 teams together and creating an occasion that attracts such a wonderful crowd is something to be proud of,” said Milla.
“Well done to everyone who contributed to making this event possible — the organisers, participating clubs, players, supporters, and all those who helped make the day a success.”
