Team Goemkarponn
Benaulim: Betalbatim Sports Club clinched the prestigious Benaulim Villagers Cup in a thrilling final against Navelim Sporting Club, winning 7-6 in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout after a dramatic 2-2 draw in regulation time. The electrifying match, played before a packed crowd at the St. John the Baptist Panchayat ground in Benaulim, was a showcase of passion, resilience, and footballing drama.
Navelim took an early lead in the 17th minute when their talisman Ronaldo Pereira calmly converted a penalty. Betalbatim responded strongly, and in the 30th minute, a free-kick by Dickson Rogtao led to an own goal by Navelim’s Aden Pereira, leveling the score. In the second half, Navelim once again went ahead after another Ronaldo penalty, awarded following a foul by Betalbatim keeper Milton Dsouza on Prestly Gomes. However, in a cruel twist of fate, Aden Pereira conceded his second own goal under pressure, making it 2-2 and setting the stage for a dramatic shootout.
In the penalty tiebreaker, Betalbatim held their nerve to triumph 7-6, taking home the winner’s trophy along with ₹50,000 in prize money. Several individual honors were awarded: Ronaldo Pereira (Navelim) was named Best Striker, Klusner Pereira (Betalbatim) bagged Best Player, while his teammates Milton Dsouza, Dickson Rogtao, Ashley Fernandes, and Garson Braganza were named Best Goalkeeper, Best Midfielder, Best Defender, and Upcoming Player, respectively. Maina SC from Curtorim was recognized as the Most Disciplined Team.
The awards were presented by Chief Guest and former Goa Chief Minister Mr. Churchill Alemao, in the presence of ZP member Nelly Rodrigues, VP Cana Benaulim Panchayat member Manoj Kesarkar, sports enthusiast Mrs. Lizelle from Pedda Benaulim, and parish priests Fr. Malcolm and Fr. Xavier. Club officials and community members also joined in celebrating the grand conclusion to one of Goa’s most spirited football tournaments.
