MARGAO
Cuncolim Union booked their place in the semifinals of the Cavelossim Villagers UK Cup 2025, organized by Santa Cruz Club Cavelossim, with a hard-fought 5-4 win via tiebreaker against hosts SCC of Cavelossim. The match was played at the Fr. Druston and Wellington Ground, Cavelossim.
In a game marked by cautious play and missed opportunities, both sides struggled to find rhythm despite opting for a short-passing strategy. However, the lack of precision in final passes made it easy for defenders to snuff out any real threat on goal.
Cuncolim’s Vinod Velip came closest in regulation time with a powerful volley that flew over the crossbar. For Cavelossim, Raju Cardozo missed a golden chance to convert a cross from Aslwil Afonso, while Edwill Afonso failed to capitalize on a through ball from Minglen Costa, with the Cuncolim goalkeeper making a crucial save to deny him.
With the deadlock unbroken at full time, the match went into penalties.
Cuncolim converted all five of their spot kicks through Joyston Fernandes, Mathew Fernandes, Wilson Fernandes, Vireny Velip, and Anesh.
For Cavelossim, Maven Gracias, Kayne Cardozo, Aswil Afonso, and Dalzan Passanha scored, but Edwill Afonso’s penalty was saved by the Cuncolim goalkeeper, sealing victory for the visiting side.
Cuncolim Union will now face Parish Youth Nuvem in the first semifinal on May 19.
Jitendra Chodnekar, Treasurer of Santa Cruz Club Cavelossim, presented the Food Court Man of the Match award to Dylon Fernandes of SCC Cavelossim.
