MARGAO
Guirdolim Club have secured promotion to the Goa Football Association (GFA) First Division for the 2026–27 season after finishing second in the All Goa Play-offs.
The club enjoyed a strong campaign throughout the season. In the Salcete Zone qualifiers, Guirdolim topped their group with six wins and one draw, collecting 19 points. They followed this up in the South Zone play-offs with two wins and one defeat to again finish top of the group on six points and qualify for the All Goa Play-offs.
In the final round, Guirdolim opened with a 0-0 draw against Valpoi SC before registering a 4-0 win over Bogmalo United. Entering the decisive match against Agassaim Youth Club needing only a draw to confirm qualification, Guirdolim secured a 3-2 victory to finish level on points with Valpoi SC.
The final standings were decided on goal average, with Valpoi SC finishing first to be crowned champions, while Guirdolim placed second. Both teams earned promotion to the GFA First Division for the 2026–27 season.
Across the league campaign, Guirdolim scored 48 goals and conceded just nine. Striker Reegan Costa finished as the team’s leading scorer with 18 goals, while Sowell contributed eight from midfield.
In the decisive fixture played at the SAG Ground, Benaulim, Guirdolim began on the front foot, controlling possession and creating early chances. However, they were unable to convert their opportunities in the opening stages.
Agassaim Youth Club relied on counter-attacks and came close to taking the lead midway through the first half but failed to hit the target. Against the run of play, Guirdolim went ahead in the 41st minute when Reegan Costa capitalised on a cross from Meliston, beat three defenders and calmly finished to make it 1-0 at half-time.
Agassaim responded strongly after the break and equalised in the 54th minute through Sanket, who converted a rebound off the post. Guirdolim regained the lead in the 60th minute when Crimson headed home from a corner.
The match remained competitive, and Agassaim drew level again in the 80th minute after Naveen capitalised on a defensive clearance to make it 2-2.
With the game finely poised, Sowell produced the decisive moment, collecting the ball in his own half, advancing past several defenders and rounding the goalkeeper before scoring to seal a 3-2 victory and confirm Guirdolim’s promotion.
Former club president Patwin Fizardo expressed satisfaction at the team’s return to the First Division, crediting the managing committee and players for their sustained effort. Sports Secretary and team manager Glimson Fernandes said the squad’s unity and consistency throughout the season were key to achieving promotion, noting that the title was decided by a one-goal difference in goal average.
Guirdolim Club will now compete in the GFA First Division in the 2026–27 season.
