FC Siolim stormed into the semifinals of the Franco Gouveia Memorial Tournament after defeating Navelim Sporting 2-0 in an exciting quarterfinal clash played at the DSYA Ground and organised by St Anthony Club Colva.
Navelim Sporting started the match on an attacking note and nearly took an early lead in the fourth minute when Joyson Couthino’s powerful free-kick crashed against the crossbar. Both sides adopted an aggressive approach during the first half, relying on quick counterattacks and fast transitions to create scoring opportunities.
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Nash Pereira and Joyson Couthino impressed for Navelim with their energetic performances, but despite several attacking moves from both teams, the opening half ended goalless.
FC Siolim came back stronger after the break, with Vishank Dhargalkar and Saideep Pompurpekar repeatedly troubling the Navelim defence with dangerous runs into the attacking third.
The breakthrough came in the 42nd minute when Lavnay Shirodkar stunned spectators with a spectacular 50-yard free-kick that flew straight into the net, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
Buoyed by the opener, Siolim continued to dominate proceedings and soon doubled their advantage through Saideep Pompurpekar, who finished calmly to put his side firmly in control.
Navelim Sporting attempted to mount a comeback, but FC Siolim’s defence, led effectively by Lavnay Shirodkar and Gaurav, stood strong to secure a memorable semifinal berth.
Saideep Pompurpekar was named Man of the Match and received the award from Francis Fernandes, former vice-president of the Goa Football Association and president of FC Siolim.
