Team Herald
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RAIA: Navelim Sporting Club advanced to the next round of the 4th Betalbatim Villagers Cup 2025, after securing a 3-1 win via the tie-breaker against Sporting Club of Davorlim, held at the panchayat ground, Betalbatim.
Davorlim nearly took the lead in the 17th minute, but Ajay Raj failed to convert a clear opportunity. Navelim capitalised on the miss with a swift counterattack, and in the 25th minute, Macvin Gomes unleashed a spectacular long-range strike that stunned the Davorlim goalkeeper to put his side ahead.
Davorlim responded swiftly, equalising in the 33rd minute through Alent Colaco. The sides went into the break level at 1-1.
In the second half, Davorlim continued to press. Milton Colaco came agonisingly close in the 50th minute with a thunderous effort that rattled the crossbar. They nearly snatched victory in the final moments of the match, but luck did not favour them.
With the match deadlocked at full time, the outcome was decided by a tie-breaker. Navelim held their nerves and triumphed 3-1 in the shootout.
Selvin Gomes of Navelim Sporting Club was named man-of-the-match for his consistent and composed performance throughout the contest.