The inaugural Columbus Cup delivered everything its founders had hoped for and then some. Twelve teams from across Goa descended on Soul Blaze, Dabolim from 20-21 June for two days of high-octane Under-13 football that was competitive, well-organised and thrilling.
Salgaocar FC emerged as champions, defeating Living Footprint FA 2-0 in the final, with Master Priyanshu Yadav taking Player of the Tournament honours and Damien Miranda named Iconic Player. Regina Mundi HS Chicalim claimed third place, while individual awards were spread across the finalists, recognising the best goalkeeper, striker, defender and midfielder of the competition.
The tournament spotlight fell warmly on Columbus Acers, the debutant side named in honour of Columbus Spence, the seventeen-year-old son of Karma Group Chairman John Spence, who conceived the project and whose belief that talent deserves a pathway regardless of background gave the whole enterprise its purpose. Playing in their first competitive tournament, the team fought through a tough group to reach the Super Six stage, with Arjun Lamani, Armaan Ali and Deepak providing the cutting edge throughout.
Organised with precision by Head Coach Umer Mutawalli and his Ace Soccer Academy team, with every match kicking off exactly on time. Participants and spectators alike left hoping this becomes an annual fixture. On this evidence, it should.
