MARGAO
Calangute Veterans were crowned champions of Goan veterans football after a stunning 5–1 victory over Cavelossim in the final of the 23rd All Goa Veterans Tournament, held at the Per Seraulim ground on Thursday.
Organised by Flame of Unity Sports Club, the match got off to a fiery start with Calangute scoring twice within the first five minutes, setting the tone for what would become a dominant display.
The star of the show was Bibiano Fernandes, head coach of India’s U-17 team, who rolled back the years in spectacular fashion. Fernandes netted two goals and provided two assists, proving instrumental in dismantling Cavelossim’s defence.
By half-time, Calangute had already stormed to a commanding 5–0 lead, with Dumain, Robert, and Allwyn joining Bibiano on the scoresheet.
Though Cavelossim tried to mount a second-half response, their efforts were largely in vain. Raju Cardozo battled bravely, and Mario managed to score a consolation goal, but it was too little, too late.
The prize distribution ceremony was graced by chief guest Warren Alemao, social worker, youth leader, and founder of the Benaulim Constituency Football Academy. He was joined by Nelly Rodrigues, former Zilla Panchayat chairperson, and Dixon Vaz, sarpanch of V.P. Cavelossim, to hand over the trophies.
