The Goa Football Association (GFA), in collaboration with the Government of Goa, announced the second edition of the prestigious Bhausaheb Bandodkar Memorial Trophy, to be held from August 24 to September 6 at the Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, South Goa.
This year’s edition features an expanded lineup with the inclusion of two top-tier international clubs—Brisbane Roar FC from Australia and Clube Deportiva Defensa y Justicia from Argentina. Both clubs compete at the highest level in their respective countries and are set to bring a fresh level of competition to Goa.
Addressing a press conference, Sports Minister Govind Gaude said: “This year, we will make it bigger and better. We are going to include two foreign clubs, namely Brisbane Roar FC from Australia and Clube Deportiva Defensa y Justicia from Argentina.”
Gaude emphasised the broader vision for Goan football, saying: “Our aim is to revive Goan football and raise the standard of the sport within the state. By hosting such a high-caliber tournament, we can provide our local players with invaluable experience and exposure, ultimately producing talent that can represent Goa and India on bigger stages.”
“We have decided to price the tickets at just Rs 100 per day (for both matches) for the East, South and North Stands while the West stand tickets are available for Rs 200 per day (for both matches). The tickets will he available from August 23rd, at GFA office Panaji, Fatorda Stadium (before matches) and Duler Stadium. I urge the football enthusiasts to come in large number as I assure it will be entertaining and quality football at display. I also request parents and schools to send their children to watch and experience the game,” stated GFA president Dr Caitano Fernandes.
The tournament will feature a competitive lineup, including ISL clubs Odisha FC and FC Goa, along with I-League stalwarts like Chennai FC, Dempo SC, and Churchill Brothers. The tournament will be structured into two groups of four teams each. Group A will consist of FC Goa, Brisbane Roar FC, Dempo SC, and the GPL Qualifier. Group B will see Odisha FC, Chennai FC, Churchill Brothers FC, and Clube Deportiva Defensa y Justicia battle it out for a spot in the finals.
As Goa sets the stage for this grand football spectacle, the GFA invites fans and football enthusiasts to witness some of the best talent from India and abroad, competing in the spirit of sportsmanship and excellence.
