MARGAO
United Club of Seraulim pulled off a thrilling upset, edging past the experienced Navelim Sporting 5-4 via penalty shootout to secure a place in the quarterfinals of the Cavelossim Villagers UK Cup 2025, organised by Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim and held at the Fr. Druston and Wellington Ground, Cavelossim.
Navelim had a golden chance to open the scoring when Joyrith Braganza, Seraulim’s goalkeeper, inadvertently handled a back pass from Ashley Fernandes, resulting in an indirect free kick inside the box. Braganza, however, redeemed himself by making a crucial save.
Seraulim came close to breaking the deadlock when Selroy Fernandes sent in a pinpoint cross that was headed goalward by Elroy Fernandes, only for Navelim keeper Meheboob to produce a brilliant save, tipping the ball over the bar.
In the dying moments of regulation time, Ronaldo Pereira had a chance to seal the match for Navelim but headed wide with only the goalkeeper to beat, leaving the scoreline 0-0 at full time.
In the ensuing penalty shootout, Seraulim held their nerves with successful conversions by Ashley Fernandes, Flascio Fernandes, Sandeep Shanke, Oliver D'Souza, and Gladson Braganza.
For Navelim, Clinton Niasso, Jayson Coutinho, Rehan Sayed, and Venito Costa found the net, but Aden Pereira’s miss proved decisive as his shot went wide, handing Seraulim a well-earned victory.
Oliver D'Souza of United Club of Seraulim was awarded the Man of the Match by Viriato Mendes, Vice-Chairman of the organizing club.
Seraulim will now face Ambelim SC in the quarterfinals on May 18.
