Goa bid farewell to one of its iconic sports figures, Eugenio Cardozo, who breathed his last on Wednesday morning. The passing of the 70-year-old has left a deep void in the football fraternity, which mourns the loss of a talent who brought immense pride to the State.
Cardozo's remarkable contribution under the bar in numerous successful campaigns remains in the archives of the state's sporting history.
Renowned for his lightning reflexes and adeptness in handling crosses and high balls, Cardozo stood as a goalkeeper par excellence. His key role in securing victories for his team, notably in the 1979 and 1980 Rovers Cup triumphs, earned him widespread acclaim. Notably, he played an instrumental part in Dempo's conquest of the latter title in Bombay, achieving the feat without allowing a single goal.
Cardozo's remarkable performances extended beyond tournaments, with memorable displays such as leading Dempo to victory in the 1976 Bandodkar Gold Trophy and the 1979 Stafford Challenge Cup, boasting clean sheets. His resilience and agility were further highlighted in the 1980 Senior Division League, where he conceded just three goals throughout the winning campaign.
Beyond his achievements on the field, Cardozo showcased his multifaceted talents in the wold of arts and culture. He actively participated in Tiatrs as an actor, and his musical abilities were widely recognised, composing over a hundred songs and earning accolades as the best singer. Among his diverse talents, Cardozo often expressed that composition was his best talent.
Despite retiring from football and venturing into real estate, Cardozo's absence left a noticeable void, proving challenging for his club to fill, despite their persistent efforts with various replacements.
Cardozo leaves behind a rich sporting legacy carried on by his children, Steffi and Ricardo.
Ricardo Cardozo, following in his father's footsteps, carved out his own niche in football. He has represented various prestigious clubs including JSW Bengaluru FC, Mumbai FC, Mohun Bagan, and Churchill Brothers Goa. He clinched a gold medal at the Lusofonia Games for India and has gone on to establish the Super30 Soccer Schools in Goa, a testament to his commitment to the sport.
Meanwhile, Steffi Cardozo has made her mark as a shot put athlete, representing India on nine occasions and amassing an impressive tally of 28 national medals. Breaking numerous state and national records, Steffi's dedication to her sport is evident. Additionally, she pursued her education, earning master's degrees in public administration and sports management, and is currently employed at the Sports Authority of Goa, continuing her family's tradition of excellence in sports administration.
