MARGAO
Cuncolim Union secured a spot in the semifinals of the United Trophy after defeating Betalbatim Sports Club 5-4 in a tense penalty shootout at the Rosary Church Ground, Navelim, on Friday.
The match ended in a 0-0 draw after the regulation time, with both teams unable to break the deadlock despite numerous attempts.
In the ensuing tiebreaker, Cuncolim Union held their nerve, with Wilson Fernandes, Frazer Fernandes, Matthew Fernandes, Ansh Patil, and Shankar Gauncar successfully converting their penalties. Betalbatim’s Aniston Fernandes, Klusner Pereira, Gladson Braganza, and Jesus Ferrao also scored, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win.
Aniston Fernandes of Betalbatim was awarded the "Man of the Match" honor for his stellar performance, with the trophy presented by Jose Pereira, former president of Betalbatim Sports Club.
Cuncolim Union now advances to the semifinals, where they will look to continue their impressive run in the tournament.
