I am proud to highlight Bibiano Fernandes, the humble and soft-spoken former footballer who played for Churchill Brothers, Dempo, Vasco, Fransa-Pax, Sporting Club de Goa and East Bengal. Today, Bibiano is a respected youth coach, known for his belief in letting players learn by making mistakes, playing with freedom and focusing on basic skills. As head coach of the India U-17 men’s team, he recently inspired them to win their seventh SAFF U-17 Championship in Colombo on penalties. This was his fifth SAFF title as coach, and his second in less than five months, after the U-19 crown in Arunachal Pradesh in May. Bibiano hails from our own village of Saligao, Bardez, Goa. His journey reflects the nurturing spirit of our community. Today, as a former player and now a coach, he is shaping the future of Indian football by guiding young talent with dedication and vision. The people of Saligao take great pride in Coach Bibiano’s achievements. We wish him success in all his future efforts, and may his journey continue to inspire the next generation of footballers from our village and beyond.
