MARGAO
Host team Kaykee Youth Club Dongorim Majorda emerged champions of the Friendship Cup 2025, defeating Rising Star with an impressive 5-2 victory in the final. The tournament, organized by Kaykee Youth Club, was held for boys under 15 years of age to promote youth participation and grassroots football development.
Rising Star got off to a flying start when the industrious Aman Kumar found the net in the 7th minute. However, Kaykee Youth Club quickly responded, with Elroy D’Silva equalizing in the 12th minute. Both teams headed into the halftime break level at 1-1.
In a thrilling second half, both goalkeepers showcased commendable reflexes. Cristiano Colaco made two diving saves to deny Arbin Ram and Sahil Mheslekar, while his counterpart was alert to thwart efforts from Alex Fernandes and Puran Thopil.
The turning point came midway through the second half. The attacking duo of Puran Thopil and Alex Fernandes combined brilliantly, each scoring twice in the 62nd and 64th minutes, extending Kaykee’s lead to 5-1. Though Aman Kumar struck again in the 66th minute for Rising Star, it wasn’t enough to overturn the deficit.
The final score stood at 5-2 in favor of Kaykee Youth Club.
The Chief Guest for the final was Patricea Rego, Director of Rego Food Products, who presented the prizes in the presence of Edana Braganza and Alisha Pereira. Anjulo P. Fernandes delivered the vote of thanks, concluding a memorable event.
