PANAJI
The 2nd edition of the Bhausaheb Bandodkar Memorial Trophy kicks off on Saturday at the iconic PJN Stadium in Fatorda, promising an exhilarating football spectacle.
Defending champions FC Goa will clash with GPL qualifiers Sporting Clube de Goa in the opening match, while I-League giants Dempo SC will take on Australia's Brisbane Roar FC in the second encounter.
This year's tournament has garnered significant attention with the inclusion of two top-tier international clubs ” Brisbane Roar FC from Australia and Argentina's Club Defensa y Justicia. Both clubs, known for competing at the highest levels in their respective leagues, bring a new level of competition to the event.
The tournament features a strong lineup, including ISL teams Odisha FC, Chennaiyin FC, and FC Goa, alongside I-League stalwarts Dempo SC and Churchill Brothers. The competition is structured into two groups: Group A includes FC Goa, Brisbane Roar FC, Dempo SC, and Sporting Clube de Goa, while Group B features Odisha FC, Chennaiyin FC, Churchill Brothers FC, and Club Defensa y Justicia.
GFA President Caitano Fernandes expressed his enthusiasm for the tournament's expanded format: "We’ve made it bigger this year by including Brisbane Roar FC and Defensa y Justicia. It’s a great feeling to see our local clubs competing against such high-calibre teams. I urge fans to come out and enjoy the quality football on display."
GFA Vice-President Jonathan Desouza added, "This year’s tournament will be faster and more intense. It’s a fantastic experience for our players and a boost for Goan football."
"As Goa prepares for this grand event, the GFA invites fans to witness some of the best talents from India and abroad, competing in a spirit of sportsmanship and excellence," the GFA said in a press relesae.
