LONDON
The Goan Super Cup UK has established itself as one of the biggest Goan football tournaments in the UK, bringing together talented young players and fiercely competitive teams for a celebration of football, community and giving back.
Now in its sixth year, the tournament continues to grow, uniting teams and supporters from across London and beyond while raising vital funds and support for disadvantaged and orphaned children in Goa.
Founded and organised by Dylan Pereira (26) and Andrew Fernandes (31), and supported by Simone Fernandes and Zara Lobo, all originally from Navelim-Goa, the tournament has become much more than a football competition.
“It is the only Goan football tournament in the UK dedicated to raising funds and delivering aid to children across Goa,” said Dylan Pereira.
Every year, players, teams, sponsors and supporters turn their passion for football into tangible support which enables GSC UK to provide football kits, equipment and opportunities to young people who might otherwise go without.
For the organisers, success is measured not only in goals and trophies but also in the difference the tournament makes away from the pitch.
Five years of impact in Goa
Over the past five years, Andrew said the Goan Super Cup has supported more than 430 disadvantaged and orphaned children across Goa, working with schools, charities, children’s homes and community football initiatives to provide football boots, kits, and footballs.
In 2022, 100 children from Fr Agnel Niketan in Pilar and The Mango Tree Trust – Walkers Children’s Charity in Mapusa benefitted from the GSC UK.
In 2023, its impact grew further, with 110 children benefitting from Holy Family Convent and St Theresa High School in Cortalim.
A further 77 disadvantaged children and young people benefited in 2024 through the Smilekeepers Foundation in Santa Cruz and Ave Maria Athletics & Walkers Club in Benaulim.
Most recently, in 2025, another 78 children and young people from Holy Family Convent in Cortalim and South Goa United in Seraulim also benefitted from the full kits.
Dylan and Andrew have made the mission personal by visiting some of the orphanages, schools and communities they support, meeting children and young people directly and witnessing the impact of their work.
“Those visits have helped us understand local needs, build meaningful relationships and see first-hand how something as simple as a football kit can make a difference,” Andrew added.
Goan Super Cup UK 2026
The 2026 edition at Beckenham Kent in South London on August 15 was the biggest and most competitive Goan Super Cup to date, with 24 teams competing in an exciting World Cup-themed format.
Teams travelled from Wembley, Manchester, Hounslow, London, Swindon, Slough, and beyond, reflecting the tournament’s growing reputation within the UK Goan community.
The teams were divided into four groups of six, with every match bringing skill, determination and plenty of competitive spirit.
The second semi-final saw Team Germany, captained by Daniel Fernandes, take on Team England, captained by Daryl Dias. England prevailed to book their place in the showpiece final.
The final between Kenya and England was eagerly anticipated, but England produced a commanding performance to secure a 3–0 victory and lift the trophy. Kenya were deserving runners-up.
The Community Shield was also contested in excellent spirit, with Spain, captained by Xavier Vas, defeating Morocco 3–2 to claim the silverware. Individual awards recognised outstanding performances, including Player of the Tournament, Game Changer and Best Goalkeeper, while spectators also participated in an on-pitch penalty shootout competition.
A community united
Beyond the football, the Goan Super Cup remains a celebration of friendship, culture and community. Supporters arrived in their colours, creating a fun atmosphere filled with pride, passion and togetherness.
“This extends well beyond match day. Following the tournament the work commences in ensuring that GSC meets its goal in ensuring disadvantaged children in Goa receive the kits, equipment and encouragement to enable them to play, grow and dream,” said Andrew.
The organisers expressed gratitude to sponsors, donors, players, volunteers and supporters who contributed to the success of GSC 2026. They also acknowledged Kentukee Restaurant based in Colva, Goa and Godstone Farm and Sheene Mill Hotel UK (owned by Levis Mendonca), whose support helps sustain the tournament’s charitable mission.
Nash photography and Celyo and Reema captured the event on camera and helped preserve the memories, emotion and spirit of the Goan Super Cup 2026 on their YouTube channel, ‘Goan Roots and Stories’.
“As the Goan Super Cup looks towards the future, its vision remains clear: grow the game, raise more support and change more lives. Together, we play. Together, we give. Together, we change lives,” summed up Dylan and Andrew.
