MARGAO
Former winger of Salcete Football Club, Sesa Goa and Salgaocar FC Inacio Viegas passed away at Goa Medical College and Hospital, Bambolim on Friday. He collapsed at the ground and was rushed to the Victor Hospital, Margao and later shifted to Bambolim.
According to sources, Viegas was administrated a Covid-19 vaccine in the morning and he went out to play with the villagers the same evening and suffered a stroke. He is survived by his wife Lira and two sons. He was 57.
Viegas got into Sesa Goa and there he gained a name for himself and was signed by Salgaocar Sports Club. He played for the green brigade for four seasons. The player was a regular in the teams he played during his day.
The Sao Jose de Areal-born left winger was one of the finest in the state. His precision in passing and left lethal weapon abilities separated him from the rest. Viegas started his football journey at Sao Jose de Areal Sports club. Then he joined the Salcete Football Club before signing for Sesa Goa.
He also served as coach of Salcete FC, Ave Maria Walkthan AC. He coached Salcete FC in the GFA First Division League. After he retired from football, he joined SAG as a coach. He also served as state coach of under-14 team. He represented Goa in the Santosh Trophy.
“Salgaocar players and those of us who were fortunate to play with Inacio have expressed their sadness at the sad demise of the footballer. May the soul of the departed player rest in peace,” said a former teammate.
GFA vice-president Anthony Pango said, “It is a great loss. His contribution to Goan football can never be forgotten.” Anthony Levino Pereira, coach of Salgaocar FC, who played alongside Viegas at Sesa, described him as a true gentleman who always worked with dedication.
“Sad to hear about Inacio Viegas. We lost one of the best footballers in Goan football,” said Alvito D'Cunha, former India and East Bengal midfielder.
“He was a soft-spoken person and a good player. As a veteran, he played for my team for many tournaments,” said Franky Fernandes, former FIFA Assistant Referee.
“Shocked to hear that our club coach Inacio Viegas is no more. I have seen him working hard for the football development of our club. It is a big loss to Salcete FC. His contributions will always be remembered,” said Joe Dias, President of Salcete FC.
