Tag: Penalty Shootout

Sports

FC Goa Clinch AIFF Super Cup in Dramatic Shootout, Seal AFC Champions League 2 Spot

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk

FC Goa secured a historic AIFF Super Cup triumph after edging East Bengal FC 6-5 in a dramatic sudden-death penalty shootout at the Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium in Margao. The victory not only allowed them to defend their title successfully but also helped them clinch a coveted berth in next season’s AFC Champions League 2. With this win, the Gaurs extended their record by lifting the trophy for the third time, establishing themselves as one of the most dominant sides in the competition’s history.

The final was a gripping affair from the outset, with both teams creating a flurry of chances and displaying relentless intensity. The home side began brightly, backed by strong local support, and threatened through early set pieces. East Bengal gradually settled and carved out opportunities of their own, including a clear chance in the 12th minute when Miguel Ferreira broke through but shot wide with only the goalkeeper to beat. Bipin Singh and Mahesh Naorem kept Goa on high alert with dangerous plays from the flanks, while FC Goa responded with long-range efforts and probing through balls.

The match saw swings in momentum after the break, with both sides coming close to breaking the deadlock. East Bengal nearly scored in the 74th minute when PV Vishnu’s effort forced a fumble from goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari, but the Goa custodian reacted quickly to prevent the ball from crossing the line. The close call awakened FC Goa, who hit the upright through Brison Fernandes before Dejan Drazic missed a clear header moments later. In extra time, Gill produced crucial saves for East Bengal to keep them in contention, including a reflex stop from Siverio’s rebound and a sharp grab from Timor’s header.

With no goals after 120 minutes, the final moved into a tense penalty shootout. Both teams held their nerve through the initial five attempts, finishing 4-4. In sudden death, Sahil Tavora converted for FC Goa after Udanta Singh scored his attempt for East Bengal. The game was finally decided when substitute Hamid Ahadad scored but PV Vishnu missed the target with his effort, handing FC Goa the victory. Despite Gill getting hands to a few penalties, East Bengal ultimately fell short by a single miss.

FC Goa’s composure under pressure, clinical finishing from the spot, and resilience throughout the contest underscored their championship mentality. The result cements their legacy in Indian football, gives them continental exposure next season, and marks another memorable night for the fans who witnessed a classic final unfold in Margao.

Sports

India U17 Triumph Over Bangladesh in Dramatic Penalty Shootout to Claim Seventh SAFF U17 Championship Title

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

In an electrifying final at the Racecourse International Stadium in Colombo on September 27, 2025, the India U17 men’s national team emerged victorious in the SAFF U17 Championship, securing their seventh title after a dramatic penalty shootout against Bangladesh. The encounter was a thrilling showcase of youthful energy, resilience, and footballing skill, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.

India started the match on a high note, asserting attacking dominance from the outset. Just four minutes into the game, a precise cross from Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam found Dallamuon Gangte, who confidently converted to give India an early lead. The Blue Colts maintained their momentum, creating numerous chances and controlling possession against a Bangladesh team that had kept clean sheets throughout the tournament. However, Bangladesh’s persistence paid off in the 24th minute when Md Manik rose highest to head in a close-range goal from a corner, leveling the score and reigniting their challenge.

India responded with determination and reclaimed the lead shortly before halftime. Azlaan Shah KH capitalized on a goalkeeper’s fumble in the 38th minute, slotting the ball home to put India ahead 2-1 going into the break. The second half saw a tactical shift as India adopted a more cautious approach, prioritizing defensive solidity while Bangladesh pushed forward aggressively. The visitors came close to equalising multiple times, hitting the woodwork and testing India’s goalkeeper Manashjyoti Baruah with long-range shots and set-piece opportunities.

The drama intensified in stoppage time when Bangladesh’s Ihsan Habib Riduan delivered a heart-stopping equaliser in the seventh minute of added time, forcing the match into a penalty shootout. The shootout tested nerves and composure, where India’s young players demonstrated remarkable calmness under pressure. Converting four penalties successfully, they held their nerve as Bangladesh faltered, sealing the victory.

This triumph marks the fifth SAFF title for coach Bibiano Fernandes, who earlier led the Indian U19 team to glory this year. The win underscores the effectiveness of India’s youth football programs and the promising talent rising through the ranks. The squad, captained by Denny Singh Wangkhem and featuring key performers such as Dallamuon Gangte, Azlaan Shah KH, and Lesvin Rebello, has set a high benchmark for future teams.

The celebratory moment was completed as Lesvin Rebello proudly lifted the SAFF U-17 Championship trophy alongside his teammates, symbolizing the collective effort and passion that drove India to this memorable victory. The Blue Colts’ success in Colombo reflects a bright future for Indian football on the South Asian stage and beyond.

Sports

Historic Win for FC Siolim in Inaugural Mansion House Football Cup

Tanisha Cardozo

In an unforgettable finale held under the Cuncolim floodlights, FC Siolim emerged as the first-ever champions of the All Goa Mansion House Football Cup 2025 after edging out Curtorim Gymkhana 6-3 in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. The match, played at the Government School Playground, ended 2-2 in regulation time before Siolim sealed the deal in the tiebreaker, writing their names into Goan football folklore.

The high-stakes contest began with Curtorim Gymkhana drawing first blood in the 12th minute, courtesy of a clinical finish by their talisman, Anslem Fernandes. But Siolim were quick to respond. Gaurav Vaigankar restored parity in the 25th minute with a thumping strike that energized the crowd and shifted momentum.

The first half saw near misses from both sides, but it was in the second half where the drama truly unfolded. Just minutes after the restart, Pushparaj Mandrekar gave Siolim the lead in the 45th minute with a sharp finish. However, the resilient Curtorim side came back once again through none other than Anslem Fernandes, who scored his second of the night in the 60th minute to make it 2-2.

With no breakthrough in the dying minutes, the match went to penalties, where Siolim held their nerve. Mayuresh Naik, Gaurav Vaigankar, Pushparaj Mandrekar, and Lavnay Shirodkar all confidently converted their spot-kicks. In contrast, Curtorim Gymkhana faltered under pressure, managing to score only once through Savio Peixoto.

The shootout triumph earned Siolim a winners’ purse of Rs 60,000 and the distinction of becoming the inaugural champions of the Mansion House Football Cup. Curtorim Gymkhana took home Rs 40,000 and the runners-up trophy.

Individual brilliance throughout the tournament was recognized with special honours. Mayuresh Naik of FC Siolim was awarded Best Player, Pushparaj Mandrekar received Best Striker, Videsh Sawant took Best Midfielder, while Curtorim’s Johnson Bhagat and James Fernandes won Best Goalkeeper and Best Defender, respectively.

The grand prize distribution ceremony featured prominent dignitaries including Sports Minister Dr Ramesh Tawadkar, Cuncolim MLA and Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao, Tilaknagar Industries State Head Vineet Kumar Bothra, Landry Mascarenhas, Fr Eremito Coutinho, Artemio Da Silva, Lavita Mascarenhas, Siddesh Kurade, Sailesh Vaidya, Angela Dias, and Melvin Costa. The event was compered by Vijay Kumar Kopre Dessai.

The historic evening closed with joyous scenes as Siolim’s players lifted the trophy to thunderous cheers from their traveling supporters. A celebration not just of victory, but of the growing vibrancy of grassroots football in Goa.

Sports

Historic Win: India Clinch Bronze at CAFA Nations Cup, Defeat Oman on Penalties

allycaralgoa

India scripted history at the CAFA Nations Cup 2025, clinching the Bronze medal after a thrilling victory over Oman in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. This marked the first time India defeated Oman in international football, making the achievement even more memorable.

The high-intensity match ended 1-1 in regulation time. Oman took the early lead, but India showed resilience and determination. Udanta Singh scored a crucial equaliser, keeping India’s hopes alive.

The match proceeded to a nail-biting penalty shootout. Oman faltered by missing their first two spot-kicks, and India held their nerve. Goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu once again proved his class, pulling off a decisive save on Oman’s final attempt. India sealed the victory 3-2 on penalties, sparking celebrations among players and fans alike.

This Bronze medal marks one of India’s biggest achievements in recent football history, showcasing the progress and fighting spirit of the Blue Tigers.

For Indian football fans, the result is more than just a win—it is a statement of growth, resilience, and potential on the international stage. With this historic finish, India’s campaign at the CAFA Nations Cup 2025 will be remembered for years to come.