THURSDAY, APRIL 25, 2024
Team Herald
PANJIM: Eight teams have confirmed their participation in the Goa Football Association’s first State futsal Championship which will be held at the end of the month.
Goa Velha Sports Club, Panjim Footballers, Sporting Clube de Goa, Ambelim Sports Club, Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim, Sirvodem Sports Club, Vasco Sports Club and Futebol Club YFA are the seven teams which have confirmed their interest in participation in the GFA’s first futsal event.
Speaking to Herald, GFA Vice President Lavinio Rebello said, “We are delighted to have eight teams in such a short notice. In Goa futsal isn't new. The sports is existing and now this is an opportunity for the players who will finally get the recognition through this competition,”
“Our state has produced some finest talent in football and I believe we will have equally good players in futsal too. We have introduced fees so that it gives importance to the tournament,” added Lavinio.
“This is the first time AIFF is organising National futsal and therefore Goa shouldn't miss on such an opportunity as we are the leaders in the sport. This is a chance for all the futsal players to showcase the talent in the futsal championship which is ultimately being held under the umbrella of AFC and FIFA. This is a golden opportunity for all of us,” stated GFA General Secretary Jovito Lopes. “The championship will be played under CRS,”. added Lopes.
It is learnt that the GFA is planning to host the league considering the futsal standards as defined by FIFA and have shortlisted Navelim indoor stadium or the Peddem Indoor stadium as the first priority.
The association has also shortlisted a couple of outdoor courts. It is given to understand, FC Goa and Churchill Brothers FC Goa being part of ISL and I-League respectively have been given direct entry in the final phase by AIFF.
