PANAJI: Clube de Salgaocar will make their debut in the top tier of Goan football as the expanded Goa Professional League 2024-25 kicks off at the Duler Stadium in Mapusa on Saturday.
Clube de Salgaocar, owned by industrialist Dattaraj Salgaocar – who co-owned FC Goa at the start – were granted a direct entry through the corporate route. Interestingly, their opening clash will be against Geno FC, who made a successful bid for direct entry last season.
Goa Police is the other entrant that has joined the league by virtue of their promotion from the GFA First Division League.
“We are pleased to see the growth of our league, now featuring 14 competitive teams,” said Goa Football Association (GFA) president Caitano Fernandes. “Clube de Salgaocar’s recent performance in the Bhausaheb Bandodkar Trophy qualifiers has been noteworthy, and we look forward to seeing how they fare in the league.”
Coached by former international Keenan Almeida, Clube de Salgaocar put up impressive performances during the qualifiers for the Bhausaheb Bandodkar Memorial Trophy. The squad features a roster largely composed of under-21 players and bring a fresh spirit to the league. There are a handful of experienced players too, and it’s their leadership that will hold the key to the team’s success on debut.
“The team’s commitment to developing young athletes reflects its vision of fostering a new generation of footballers. The coaching staff is dedicated to harnessing the potential of these players, focusing on skill development and teamwork as they aim to establish a strong presence in the league,” the club said in a statement on Friday.
Clube de Salgaocar said their first five matches are scheduled to take place at Duler and the team is eager for local support as they embark on a new chapter.
Regulars like Sporting Clube de Goa, Dempo SC, Sesa FA and Churchill Brothers will continue to lead the charge for the title.
“This year’s league promises exciting matchups and high-quality football. We invite all football fans to join us in celebrating the sport and supporting their favourite teams,” said Caitano, who emphasised the importance of fan support in creating an engaging atmosphere for the players.