By Staff Reporter
MARGAO: Mandopa FC emerged champions of the Under-18 Five-a-Side Football Tournament organized by Passionate Dreamers Sports Club after defeating hosts Passionate Dreamers in an action-packed final held on Sunday.
Mandopa FC dominated the opening half of the summit clash, netting four goals to take firm control of the match. Clyde Pereira opened the scoring with a goal, while Samuel Pereira stole the spotlight with a brilliant hat-trick to put Mandopa FC in a commanding position.
Passionate Dreamers staged a spirited comeback in the second half, with Tanisha Simons scoring two impressive goals to reduce the deficit and keep the contest alive. However, Mandopa FC held their nerve to secure the title.
Both goalkeepers played a key role in the final, with Melbourne Caderos of Passionate Dreamers producing crucial saves, while Nawaz of Mandopa FC delivered an outstanding performance under the bar.
The tournament, aimed at promoting youth football and providing a platform for young talent, witnessed participation from 32 teams and 252 players from across Goa. Organisers praised the players for their discipline and sportsmanship, highlighting that the entire tournament concluded without a single card being issued.
Speaking at the event, the organisers thanked all participating teams, players, coaches, supporters, sponsors, and volunteers for contributing to the success of the tournament. They reiterated their commitment to nurturing young football talent in Goa and creating more opportunities for aspiring players.
The final was graced by several distinguished guests, including Daisy Castro, Princeton Fernandes, Augusto de Silva, Rajiv, and Juliet, who encouraged the young footballers and praised the initiative.
The organisers described the tournament as a major step toward strengthening grassroots football in Goa and expressed hope that such events would help produce future stars for the state and the country.
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