MARGAO
In a tribute to his pivotal role in the creation of Goa’s iconic football venue, the Sports Authority of Goa (SAG) will name one of the stands at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda after former sports minister Francisco Monte Cruz.
Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant will unveil the Francisco Monte Cruz Stand, located near the VIP pavilion, during a ceremony that will also be attended by Sports Minister Ramesh Tawadkar, PWD Minister Digambar Kamat, and Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai.
The ceremony will be held ahead of the AFC Asian Cup qualifier between India and Singapore at the venue on October 14.
Monte Cruz was instrumental in turning the dream of an international stadium in Goa into reality. As sports minister in the late 1980s, he oversaw the stadium’s construction, which was completed in a record time of less than eight months. The venue was inaugurated in 1996 and went on to host the prestigious Nehru Cup international football tournament.
Meanwhile, Goa Football Association (GFA) president Caitano Fernandes has urged football fans to turn up in large numbers to support the Indian team in their AFC Asian Cup qualifier return match against Singapore at Fatorda on October 14.
Fernandes expressed hope that with strong backing from home supporters, the Indian team could take a step towards reclaiming its "lost glory".
Paldem SC enter Cumborda finals
MARGAOPaldem SC secured their spot in the finals of the 5th Cumborda Sports Club football tournament with a 2-0 win over Agxem SC at the St Alex Church ground, Curtorim, on Thursday. Both teams showcased impressive skills in front of a sizeable crowd, but it was Paldem SC who took the lead in the 30th minute when Finley finished off a fine pass from Godwin. Agxem SC responded by increasing the tempo, with Alroy missing a clear opportunity to equalise. Despite continuous…
