Fatorda Veterans emerged champions of the 21st Flame of Unity Veterans Cup, defeating Joe Cookie's Veterans Lotoulim 4-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout at the Mabai Ground in Seraulim on Saturday. The tournament was organized by the Flame of Unity Sports Club, Seraulim.
The tightly contested final ended in a 1-1 draw at full time. Vincent Barbosa gave Fatorda the lead before Jerson Cardozo equalized for Joe Cookie's Veterans, setting up an intense tiebreaker.
In the shootout, Fatorda Veterans converted through Anthony C. Pereira, Vincent Barbosa, and Remy Colaco. Joe Cookie’s side responded with goals from Tiago Fernandes and Jerson Cardozo but fell short as Fatorda held their nerve to lift the title.
Individual Awards:
First Scorer of Finals & Best Forward: Jerson Cardozo (Joe Cookie's Veterans)
Highest Scorer of the Tournament: Rosario Carvalho (Fatorda Veterans)
First Hat-trick of the Tournament: Filipe Rodrigues (Colva Veterans)
Oldest Player: Manuel Fernandes
Best Half of Finals & Last Touch of Finals: Remy Colaco (Fatorda Veterans)
Best Goalkeeper of Finals: Camilo Barreto (Fatorda Veterans)
Best Defender: Anthony C. Pereira (Fatorda Veterans)
The thrilling finale and individual performances showcased the enduring spirit and competitive passion of Goa’s veteran footballers.