MARGAO
United Club of Verna emerged champions of the Fernando Abranches Memorial Trophy 2026 after registering a dominant 4“0 victory over Parish Youth Nuvem in the finals, organized by United Club of Verna.
Parish Youth Nuvem began on an aggressive note, with Francis Colaco hitting the crossbar early in the match. United Club of Verna opened the scoring in the 13th minute when Arfan Sayed headed home a corner from Steven Satarker. UC Verna continued to control proceedings as goals from Beneston, Jesloy Stephen and Steven Satarker before halftime gave them a commanding 4“0 lead at the break.
Despite sustained efforts by Parish Youth Nuvem in the second half, UC Verna’s well-organised defence held firm to maintain a clean sheet until the final whistle.
The finals were graced by Chief Guest Hon. Alexio Sequeira, MLA of Nuvem Constituency. Guests of Honour included Kilburn Sherwin Shawn Rebello, Rev. Fr. Lucio Dias (Parish Priest, Holy Cross Church, Verna), Reynold Abranches and family members of Late Fernando Abranches, Anthony Pango (Senior Vice President, GFA), Anthony Leo Fernandes (ZP Colva), Cosme Oliver, Costancio Paulo Rodrigues, Ravi Cabral (GFA Executive Committee Members) and Panch Member Bartholomew.
United Club of Verna received ₹90,000 and a trophy, while runners-up Parish Youth Nuvem were awarded ₹70,000 and a trophy, along with individual prizes.
Individual Award
First Goal Scorer: Arfan Sayed (UC Verna)
Best Disciplined Team: Shiroda Youth Club
Best Promising Player: Albino Pereira (Parish Youth Nuvem)
Best Defender: Nevil Gama (UC Verna)
Best Goalkeeper: Myron Fernandes
Man of the Match: Steven Satarker
