MARGAO: Arlem Youth Association advanced to the quarterfinals of the 19th All-Goa Guirdolim Panchayat Cup, defeating St. Anthony Football Club, Assolda, 5–3 via a tie-breaker in the opening match of the tournament organized by Guirdolim Club and played at the Chandor Church Sports Complex.
The match was evenly contested, with Assolda dominating the first half. However, wasteful finishing from Sunny Fernandes and Fhezer Gomes cost them early chances. Arlem gradually settled into the game, threatening on the counter but unable to find the net before the break.
Assolda took the lead in the 40th minute when Fhezer Gomes cleverly lobbed the ball over the advancing Arlem goalkeeper. Their joy was short-lived as Jeff Gaunkar of Arlem equalized soon after with a brilliant solo effort, dribbling past defenders to slot home.
With the score locked 1–1 at full time, the match was decided through penalties, where Arlem Youth Association held their nerve to convert four spot-kicks, while Assolda managed only two.
