MARGAO: Maina SC Curtorim staged two spirited comebacks before defeating Navelim Villagers Union 6-5 in a dramatic penalty shootout, following a thrilling 2-2 draw, to book their place in the semifinals of the 35th Super Soccer Tournament at the St. John the Baptist Dando Panchayat Ground, Benaulim.
Navelim struck first when Sam Pereira coolly slotted the ball into the bottom-left corner to hand his side an early lead. Despite sustained pressure from Maina, Navelim's well-organised defence held firm, taking a 1-0 advantage into halftime.
Maina hit back just four minutes after the restart, with Milagres Fernandes restoring parity. The contest remained evenly balanced, with both sides creating chances in an entertaining second half. Richard Costa put Navelim back in front in the 42nd minute with a composed finish, but Maina responded once again. Joywin Costa sparked the move that led to Anslem Fernandes finding the net in the 45th minute to level the scores at 2-2.
Neither side could find a winner during a tense closing spell, sending the match into a penalty shootout. Maina kept their nerve from the spot to edge Navelim 6-5 and complete a memorable comeback victory.
Sam Pereira of Navelim Villagers Union was named Man of the Match and received the award from former India international Roque Carneiro.
