MARGAO: Associacao Academica de Majorda Utorda Calata advanced to the quarter-finals of the 25th Fr Basilio Andrade Memorial Football Tournament after defeating Carmona Sports Club 4-3 in a penalty shootout at Musson Grounds, Majorda, following a goalless draw.
Majorda goalkeeper Fredy Fernandes emerged as the hero, saving two penalties to help the hosts secure victory. Despite the defeat, Carmona custodian Canute De Mello was named Man of the Match for his outstanding performance.
Majorda started aggressively, with Oscar Braganza sending Irfan Lal through on goal in the second minute, but Canute rushed out to make a crucial save. The Carmona goalkeeper continued to frustrate the hosts, producing a double save to deny Oscar and Irfan.
After the break, Ashley Rodrigues dribbled past the advancing goalkeeper and set up Oscar, but Canute recovered brilliantly to clear the effort off the goal line.
Carmona also threatened on the counterattack, with Dylan Fernandes denied by Fredy. Later, Ashley Mendes came close to scoring after his initial effort was saved, but the rebound was cleared off the goal line by the recovering defenders.
With neither side finding a breakthrough in regulation time, the match went to a shootout. Majorda converted four of their five attempts, while Fredy's two saves proved decisive in their 4-3 triumph.
Canute received the Man of the Match award from former footballer and businessman Alleluia Fernandes, popularly known as Alu.
