MARGAO: Navelim Sporting Club advanced to the semi-finals of the 34th Curtorim Panchayat Cup All Goa Inter-Village Football Tournament, organised by Curtorim Gymkhana, after defeating Sao Jose de Areal Sports Club 4-2 in a penalty shootout.
The match ended goalless after regulation time, with both sides guilty of missing several chances. Sao Jose de Areal’s Sam Moura failed to capitalise on a good opportunity after being set up by Stalien Oliveira, shooting over the crossbar. Navelim’s Aden Pereira also missed the target after receiving a pass from Mobin Gomes near the penalty area.
Navelim goalkeeper Mehboob Sayed produced an outstanding save in the 25th minute, diving to his right to deny Areal. The teams went into the break level at 0-0.
Navelim missed another good chance early in the second half when Nesh Pereira failed to beat the goalkeeper from close range. Areal came close in the 50th minute when Bersal Viegas’ powerful effort struck the post.
With both defences holding firm, neither side could find a breakthrough as the match ended 0-0 after 90 minutes.
In the shootout, Travis Souza, Nash Pereira, Velon Rebello and Mobin Gomes converted for Navelim, while Bersal Viegas and Josley Gomes scored for Sao Jose de Areal.
Navelim goalkeeper Mehboob Sayed was named Man of the Match for his crucial saves. The award was presented by Curtorim Village Panchayat member Jasmina Cardozo, the chief guest, and former Curtorim Gymkhana goalkeeper Nickson Sequeira, the guest of honour.
