PANAJI: Shiroda Youth Club booked their place in the final of the Rising Cup 2026, where they will meet Cuncolim Union on November 7, after defeating Fr. Agnel Sports Club, Paroda, 5-4 in a thrilling penalty shootout that went into sudden death.
The semifinal was organised by United Boys of Dando, Colva, in association with Rising Club, at the Government School Playground, Cuncolim, on Wednesday.
The match ended 1-1 at full time. Shiroda Youth Club took the lead in the 12th minute when Royston Vaz scored following a fine cross from Deepak Naik. Shiroda maintained their 1-0 advantage at half-time. However, Fr. Agnel Sports Club, Paroda, fought back in the second half, with Xavier Rebello scoring the equaliser in the 42nd minute through a powerful shot.
Both teams displayed good attacking football and fought hard to find the winning goal, but neither side could break the deadlock before the final whistle. The match was eventually decided through a tense penalty shootout, which went into sudden death. For Shiroda Youth Club, Royston Vaz, Shown Colaco, Climax Fernandes and Sanchelo Fernandes found the net, while Salvin Fernandes, Godwin Fernandes and Livan Clemente scored for Fr. Agnel Sports Club, Paroda. Shiroda Youth Club eventually emerged victorious with a 5-4 win to seal their place in the final.
Shiroda Youth Club's Prajwal Ghadi was adjudged Man of the Match for his impressive performance. The award was presented by Trijoy Dias.
