MAPUSA: Defending champions Goa had a narrow 2-1 win over Uttar Pradesh to make their way into the quarter-finals of the 4th Senior National Futsal Championship in the men’s category, organised by Futsal Association of Goa under the aegis of Futsal Association of India, at Peddem Sports Complex, on Sunday.

UP gave Goa a tough fight as both teams came out with probing attacks in the first half. The deadlock was finally broken by the visitors. 

However, Goa scored and levelled things up through Fredsan Marshall after missing three chances that went past the post by a whisker.

Two minutes later, Goa took full advantage of a fumble made by the UP keeper and took the lead through Savio Fernandes to make it 2-1.

In the second half, UP came out with some brilliant chances but failed to convert the chances. The Goan side should have netted in two more goals but it was the UP custodian who saved the game for the away side. Goa held on to their slender lead to win the game and move to the next round.

Earlier, Maharashtra scored a narrow 1-0 win over Madhya Pradesh to also make the quarter-finals.

West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Mizoram, Karnataka, Maharashtra also earned their last eight spot after their wins in their respective encounters.

The Goan eves continued their impressive momentum as they thumped Bihar 10-0 to move into the next round of the Futsal Nationals. The girls dominated entire proceedings of the game and didn't permit the away side to move ahead.

 The Goan side came out with a wonderful performance and scored 10 past with Michel, Malvita, Reema and Debbie scoring a brace each. Velanie and Stessi settled for a goal each.

Karnataka and Mumbai became the other two teams to progress into the semi-finals.