PANJIM: Cuncolim Educational Society’s College of Arts and Commerce, Cuncolim, emerged champions of the Goa University Inter-Collegiate Football Men’s Championship 2025-26, defeating Rosary College of Commerce and Arts, Navelim, 3-2, at the SAG Athletics Stadium, Bambolim, on Wednesday.
The final began with both sides displaying skill and attacking intent, though the strong defensive lines and alert goalkeepers on either end ensured a goalless opening phase.
Rosary’s backline faltered late in the first half, allowing CES striker Swavel Furtado to capitalise in the 40th and 43rd minutes. On both occasions, Furtado latched onto precise through balls, dribbled past the goalkeeper and finished coolly to give Cuncolim a 2-0 lead.
Rosary hit back in the 46th minute through Salvador Gama, who unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box into the top-left corner, reducing the deficit to 2-1 before half-time.
The second half maintained the same intensity. In the 58th minute, Tohid Yattanolli extended Cuncolim’s advantage with a neat grounder into the left corner to make it 3-1. Rosary pressed hard, creating several chances but failing to convert. Deep into injury time, Garrison Fernandes pulled one back in the 91st minute with a fine finish from a cross, setting up a tense finale. However, CES College held firm to seal a 3-2 victory and lift the trophy.
Swavel Furtado of CES College was named best player of the final for his match-winning brace.
The championship saw participation from 42 college teams across Goa. Garrison Fernandes of Rosary College was declared best player of the championship for being the tournament’s top scorer with 10 goals, exceptional discipline, and overall contribution to his team’s success.
Cuncolim Educational Society College Crowned Goa University Football Champions After 3-2 Win Over Rosary College
