October 14, 2025

Panaji rocked with football fever as Goa Football Association (GFA) hosted its flashy annual Awards Night — the third in a row since 2023. GFA president Caitano Fernandes kept his promise and cleared prize money pending for five long years! "This is a celebration of special moments of the season that just concluded as well as remember the glorious days of Goan football," Caitano said, sparking joy among players and officials. The night was a vibrant gathering where everyone from staff and referees to club officials and players got a heartfelt shoutout for their hard work. The GFA showed off its giant leap — like the whopping 1,293 matches played last season across 34 grounds! Chief Minister Pramod Sawant himself applauded this feat during his speech. New sparks flew with the launch of the girls’ U-17 league and cheers for five beach football stars who represented India nationally. Girls winning the SAFF U-17 Championships, Ambelim SC reaching AIFF Futsal semifinals, and shining debutants Clube de Salgaocar qualifying for I-League 3 stole the limelight too. Clube de Salgaocar, coached by former India player Keenan Almeida, was the dazzling gem crowned Team of the Year. Despite being debutants, they finished a stunning third in the Goa Professional League behind mighty Sporting Clube de Goa and Dempo SC. Goa's football scene is clearly on fire! Caitano also flaunted the grand success of the Bhausaheb Bandodkar Memorial Trophy’s second edition. This time, it featured foreign giants Brisbane Roar from Australia and Defensa y Justicia from Argentina, bringing global vibes to Goa. "The tournament was broadcast worldwide on FIFA plus with viewers from all five continents," Caitano bragged. Vice President Jonathan de Sousa praised the tremendous progress in just three years, thanks to support from the state government, Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, and All India Football Federation. "The association, with the help of govt, DSYA and AIFF has taken great strides in administration, competitions, coaching courses and player development," Jonathan proudly said. The Awards Night was not just a ceremony but a carnival of Goa’s passionate football spirit bursting at the seams. With fresh talent, solid management, and international exposure, Goa football looks ready to conquer even bigger stages!

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Tags: Goa football association, Clube de salgaocar, Bhausaheb bandodkar memorial trophy, Goa football, Football awards, I-league 3,