Tag: Goa Football

Sports

Al Nassr Edge Past FC Goa 2-1 in AFC Champions League Thriller at Fatorda

allycaralgoa

Goa witnessed a spectacular night of football as Al Nassr edged past FC Goa 2-1 in a pulsating AFC Champions League Group D fixture at the Fatorda Stadium. The clash brought together two footballing cultures — the passion of Goan fans and the star power of the Saudi giants — resulting in a memorable showdown.

The match began with Al Nassr asserting dominance early on. Angelo Gabriel opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a precise finish that silenced the home crowd. Goa tried to find rhythm, but Al Nassr doubled their lead in the 27th minute through Haroune Camara, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot the ball past the goalkeeper.

Just when it seemed Al Nassr would cruise to victory, FC Goa responded with a moment of brilliance. In the 41st minute, Brison Fernandes showcased grit and composure, pulling one back for the home side and igniting hope among the thousands of fans in attendance.

The second half saw Goa pressing hard, pushing for an equalizer with relentless energy, while Al Nassr’s defense stood firm under pressure. Despite a few close chances and roars from the stands, the scoreline remained unchanged as the final whistle blew.

While Al Nassr walked away with the points, FC Goa earned admiration for their fighting spirit against one of Asia’s elite teams. The result places Al Nassr in a strong position in Group D, but Goa’s spirited display ensures they remain a side to watch in the continental competition.

The atmosphere at Fatorda was electric, reminding everyone why football holds a special place in Goan hearts — passion, pride, and perseverance. ⚽🔥

Sports

4th Vedanta Youth Cup Kicks Off in Goa with Top U-16 Talent from Across India

Tanisha Cardozo

The 4th edition of the Vedanta U-16 Youth Cup officially kicked off on 21st October 2025 in Goa, welcoming elite youth football teams from across India. Organised by the Sesa Football Academy (SFA), the tournament represents a crucial platform for identifying and nurturing young footballing talent at the grassroots level.

This year’s edition features eight high-performing teams: AIFF Talent Academy, Cortalim Villagers, Bengaluru FC, Dempo SC, Muthoot FA, Sesa FA, FC Goa, and Belgaum United Football Academy. These teams will compete across three venues — SFA’s Sirsaim Campus, Vagator Ground, and FC Goa Guirim Ground — as they battle it out for the prestigious title.

The tournament follows a pool format with two groups of four teams each. The top two teams from each pool will qualify for the semi-finals, set for 27th October at SFA Sirsaim, with the grand finale scheduled for 29th October at Duler Ground. Defending champions Muthoot Football Academy are back in the fray and are expected to present a strong challenge.

The opening day saw thrilling action as AIFF Talent Academy dominated Dempo SC with a commanding 4-1 win. Bengaluru FC launched their campaign with an emphatic 9-0 victory over Cortalim Villagers. In another close match, Sesa FA edged past Belgaum United 2-1. The result of the Muthoot FA vs FC Goa clash was pending at the time of publication.

As Indian football continues to demand more robust player pipelines and structured developmental competitions, the Vedanta U-16 Youth Cup serves as a vital cog in this larger ecosystem. Supported by the Goa Football Association (GFA) and Goa Football Development Council (GFDC), the tournament aligns with key priorities such as grassroots scouting, community participation, and long-term fan engagement.

The cup also holds special significance for Sesa Football Academy, which has been investing in local talent since 1999. Leena Verenkar, Head of SCDF & CSR at Sesa Goa, emphasized that the tournament reflects the academy’s commitment to developing players from Goa’s rural and mining belts. “SFA has since 1999 been focussing on nurturing homegrown talent from the rural and mining belts of Goa. It has been a vessel for developing and nurturing the rich legacy of Goan and National football.”

Technical Director of SFA, Gavin Araujo, highlighted the tournament’s value as a high-stakes developmental opportunity for young players. “It’s a superb platform that provides the right impetus to the young footballers and gives them the much-needed edge in terms of honing skills and sharpening key attributes including mental robustness.”

The tournament also marks another successful step for SFA as a dependable organiser of national-level competitions. After hosting I-League 3 and IWL 2 matches, the academy continues to grow as a hub of football excellence, helping pave the way for India’s next generation of players. The Vedanta U-16 Youth Cup is not just a competition — it’s a launchpad for dreams.

Sports

CM Dr. Pramod Sawant Inaugurates Francisco Monte Cruz Stand at Fatorda Stadium

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Fatorda, Goa | October 14, 2025 — Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant inaugurated the Francisco Monte Cruz Stand at the Jawaharlal Nehru Football Stadium, Fatorda, during the India vs Singapore AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifier, marking yet another milestone in Goa’s celebrated football history.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by key dignitaries, including Sports Minister Shri Ramesh Tawadkar, PWD Minister Shri Digambar Kamat, MLA Shri Vijai Sardesai, and other prominent personalities from the sports fraternity.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Pramod Sawant highlighted Goa’s long-standing love affair with football and emphasized the government’s continued commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure across the state. “This stand is not just a structure; it’s a tribute to our footballing spirit and a reflection of Goa’s dedication to nurturing talent and celebrating its sports legends,” he said.

The stand has been named in honor of Francisco Monte Cruz, a respected figure known for his significant contributions to Goan football. The gesture recognizes his legacy and passion for the sport, which has inspired generations of players and fans alike.

Sports Minister Shri Ramesh Tawadkar lauded the initiative, noting that the government’s efforts are aligned with making Goa a hub for international sports events. PWD Minister Shri Digambar Kamat and MLA Shri Vijai Sardesai also extended their congratulations, emphasizing the importance of preserving Goa’s football culture.

The grand event coincided with the thrilling India vs Singapore AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifier, adding a special moment of pride and excitement for fans gathered at the stadium.

The newly inaugurated stand is expected to enhance the spectator experience and further solidify Fatorda Stadium’s reputation as one of India’s premier football venues.

With Goa continuing to play a central role in Indian football, the inauguration of the Francisco Monte Cruz Stand serves as a heartfelt reminder of the state’s passion, heritage, and commitment to the beautiful game.

Sports

Goa’s Valanka Alemao Creates History — Appointed to FIFA Standing Committee (2025–2029) ⚽🇮🇳

allycaralgoa

Goa, October 2025: In a groundbreaking moment for Indian football, Valanka Alemao has become the first Indian to be appointed to the FIFA Standing Committee for the term 2025–2029.

Her appointment marks a historic achievement — not only for Goa but for the entire nation — symbolizing India’s growing recognition and influence in international football governance.

Valanka Alemao, known for her active role in promoting football and community sports development in Goa, has been a driving force in grassroots initiatives and youth engagement programs. Her leadership, vision, and dedication to empowering athletes have earned her respect both nationally and globally.

The FIFA Standing Committees play a key role in advising and assisting the FIFA Council in shaping the global football agenda, making this appointment a significant opportunity for India to contribute directly to policy-making at the highest level.

Valanka’s inclusion reflects the increasing presence of women in sports administration and highlights India’s emergence as a contributor to the world sporting community.

This achievement has sparked immense pride among football enthusiasts, administrators, and fans across India — reinforcing the belief that Goan and Indian football are ready to make their mark on the global stage.

Congratulations, Valanka Alemao — you’ve made India proud! 🇮🇳⚽

#ValankaAlemao #FIFA #IndianFootball #Goa #WomenInSports #SportsLeadership #IndiaPride #FootballIndia #Allycaral

Sports

Is Cristiano Ronaldo Coming to Goa? Here’s What We Know

Tanisha Cardozo

FC Goa’s CEO, Ravi Puskur, has spoken candidly about the buzz surrounding Al Nassr’s visit to India — and the possibility of Cristiano Ronaldo joining the team on the trip.

In a strong statement, Puskur acknowledged the magnitude of the situation. “Let’s be frank, this footballer is bigger than the team. He owns around 20% stake in Al-Nassr, and he is such a global figure that if he decides to sit out a match, even the head coach can’t really overrule him,” he said.

The Indian Super League club is leaving no stone unturned. Puskur revealed that a delegation will be sent to speak with Ronaldo directly. “We’re sending a delegation to speak to him directly. If Ronaldo isn’t coming, we’ll be upfront about it. We don’t want to mislead anyone,” he added.

The CEO also acknowledged the hype — and the risk — for fans. Tickets are reportedly selling fast. “But if he does come and tickets are already sold out, then fans who took that chance will have struck gold,” said Puskur. “They will get to watch, possibly, the greatest footballer ever to walk the planet. After all, a clash with Al Nassr, one of Saudi Arabia’s top clubs, is an event in itself.”

The anticipation now boils down to two key points, as outlined by Puskur:
One — Cristiano Ronaldo is officially registered to play in the match.
Two — Whether or not he boards the flight to Goa.

“That’s something we will only know closer to the time,” he concluded.

If it happens, it will be a landmark moment for Indian football — one that could go down in history as the day Cristiano Ronaldo brought his game to Goa.