Curtorim: Cumborda Sports Club booked their place in the semi-finals of the Fondegal Youth Club 9-A-Side Interward Football Tournament 2025 after edging past Novovaddo Sports Club United 4-3 in a tense penalty shootout at the St Alex Church ground in Curtorim on a rain-soaked Friday.
The quarter-final clash saw both teams locked in a goalless stalemate during regulation time, despite numerous scoring opportunities. The match began at a high tempo, with both sides showing great energy and attacking intent. Torrential rain made conditions difficult, turning the pitch into a slippery, muddy challenge.
Novovaddo’s Myson was particularly active upfront, creating several chances but was repeatedly denied by Cumborda’s resilient defence. On the other end, Cumborda missed a few open chances that could have given them an edge, and the first half ended 0-0.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with both teams struggling to gain control due to the slushy field. Despite multiple attacks from Cumborda SC, they couldn’t break the deadlock, and the match headed into a penalty shootout.
In the tiebreaker, Cumborda Sports Club held their nerve, converting four of their spot kicks, while Novovaddo SC managed only three. The final score from the spot was 4-3 in favour of Cumborda, who now progress to the semi-final stage of the tournament.
Bleson Fernandes of Cumborda Sports Club was named Man of the Match for his outstanding performance and composure throughout the game.
The Fondegal Youth Club tournament continues to thrill fans with its high-octane matches, despite the unpredictable weather conditions
