MARGAO
Navelim Villagers Union defeated Candolim Sports Club 2-1 to advance to the semifinals of the 24th All Goa Our Lady of Merces 8-a-side football tournament.
The match played at Chinchinim Church ground on Thursday was scoreless at halftime, with both teams attempting to assess each other's strengths. Candolim had the upper hand, earning several corner kicks that they were unable to convert. Clinton Niasso of Navelim missed a good chance, while Anson of Candolim failed to direct his header off a corner.
In the 41st minute, Candolim's Aman Govekar broke the deadlock by scoring from close range. Navelim's Clinton Niasso equalized in the 52nd minute, and Danstan Fernandes scored the winning goal in the 68th minute, sending last year's champions to the semifinals.
Navelim Villagers Union will face the winners of the match between Arlem YA Raia and Maina SC.
