MARGAO
Cuncolim Union booked their spot in the semifinals of the Areal Panchayat Cup after edging out Curtorim GYK 5“3 in a penalty shootout at the Padribhat ground, Sao Jose de Areal, on Tuesday. The tournament is being organized by Sao Jose de Areal Sports Club.
The first half saw Cuncolim Union nearly take the lead when Daulat Desai’s sharp snap shot missed the target by a whisker.
Curtorim GYK came out stronger in the second half, creating two golden opportunities. Anslem Fdes saw his powerful strike crash against the upright, while Vesly Paes's glancing header narrowly missed the far post.
With the match ending goalless in regulation time, the game went into penalties.
Cuncolim Union held their nerve in the tie-breaker, converting through Wilson Fdes, Jolyton Fdes, Shanker Gaunder, Vayne Pires, and Sachin Velip.
Curtorim GYK responded with successful conversions from Savio Peixoto, Caetano Viegas, and Rhay Dias, but it wasn’t enough.
Cuncolim goalkeeper Sachin Velip emerged as the hero, making a crucial save during the shootout to secure the win for his team. He was later named Man of the Match, with the award presented by VP Member Gabriel Oliveira.
