Team Herald
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VERNA: Perpetual Convent HS, Navelim and Fr Agnel HS, Pilar, will clash in the final of the 2nd all-Goa U-17 inter-school Independence Cup 2025 football tournament, organised by Verna Sports Club, at the Verna Church ground.
In the first semi-final, Perpetual Convent edged Marina English HS, Verna, 3-1 in a tense tie-breaker after a goalless draw in regulation time. Both sides had chances, but wayward finishing forced penalties, where the Navelim goalkeeper produced splendid saves to secure victory.
Fr Agnel overcame title favourites Mae dos Pobres HS, Nuvem, 2-1 in the second semi-final. Musab Shaikh fired Pilar ahead with a clinical strike from the edge of the box, before Crossley Dias levelled with a powerful effort from midfield. The score remained 1-1 at half-time. Shaikh completed his brace after the break, and although Mae dos Pobres struck the woodwork late on, Fr Agnel held on.
The final will be played on August 15, followed by an eves exhibition match at 3.30 pm.