MARGAO
Ambelim Sports Club secured a hard-fought 5-2 victory via tiebreaker against Betalbatim Sporting Club to advance into the semifinals of the 18th London Trophy Inter Village Football Tournament 2026. The tournament is organised by Goa Velha Sports Club and sponsored by the Villagers of Goa Velha based in the United Kingdom.
Betalbatim Sporting Club took the lead in the 31st minute when Oliver D'Souza converted a well-executed free kick, leaving Ambelim goalkeeper Benny Silva with no chance. Ambelim responded quickly, equalising in the 34th minute as Asfin Pinto tapped in a header flick from Semson Fernandes.
With the match ending level in regulation time, the game was decided by a tiebreaker. Ambelim converted successfully through Velroy Fernandes, Aaron Pinto, Leister Fernandes, and Rayan Pinto. Betalbatim managed just one successful attempt, scored by Oliver D'Souza, while Ashley Fernandes and Joel D'Silva failed to find the target.
Asfin Pinto of Ambelim Sports Club was cautioned by match referee Jan Rodrigues during the game.
Velroy Fernandes was named Man of the Match, with the award presented by Mr. Lino Mendes, Life Member of Goa Velha Sports Club, and sponsored by Joshua and Philbert Lopes.
