As the final whistle echoed across the stadium and Sporting Clube de Goa were crowned champions of the Goa Professional League 2024–25. Led by head coach Armando Colaco, Sporting’s campaign was defined by consistency and grit, as they successfully defended their title in a fiercely contested season. For the team, this wasn’t just another trophy — it was a symbol of unfinished ambition and a step closer to their larger goals.
Sporting Clube de Goa opened May on a high, holding Dempo SC to a tense goalless draw to finish atop the table with 46 points. The result saw Sporting defend their crown for the second straight year, edging out Dempo — who ended just one point behind — in a fierce and emotionally charged contest at Ella Ground, Old Goa.
“It’s quite a long time since we started the season,” Colaco reflected. “We were traveling all over, playing every alternate day. Even today, with just one day’s rest before the game, the boys gave their best — all for that one point. And they earned it.”
For Colaco, the triumph was deeply personal — not just a victory on the pitch, but a tribute to the relentless spirit of his squad and the community behind them. “I dedicate this trophy to all my players, to my coaching staff, to the owners, and of course, to the fans — the supporters who stood by us through everything.”
But the journey hasn’t been without its setbacks. Earlier in the season, Sporting missed out on promotion to the I-League, a goal that had been central to Colaco’s vision. Yet, hope remains alive. With the AIFF’s Vision 2047 initiative potentially expanding the I-League in 2025, Sporting’s strong finish — among the top three — keeps them well in contention.
“I still have hopes,” Colaco said with conviction. “We worked hard to be in the top three, and if three or four teams are promoted, we’re there. I’ve kept all my trust in the good Lord. I know that the I-League clubs have written to the federation, asking to increase the number of teams. Climax Lawrence, being in the committee, and Shabbir Ali have backed it too — that gives me more confidence.”
He acknowledges, too, the questions raised by fans after the team’s near-miss position to the I league in April. “To tell you the truth, it came down to scheduling and fatigue. We played away matches with no rest, then returned to play in the Goa League — often with the same players. We didn’t have two separate squads. I rotated players as much as I could.”
Despite the toll, Sporting still rose to the top of Goan football — and in doing so, made a statement.
Colaco remains grounded but optimistic. “If nothing happens this year, I promise the fans — if I’m given the opportunity, I’ll push this team even harder next season. We’re not done yet.”
Armando Colaco, recently awarded the Dronacharya Award — India’s highest honour for coaches — was also seen representing the national team in the exhibition match between Brazil Legends and All India Stars earlier in March.
For Sporting Clube de Goa, this title is more than a celebration. It’s a promise. A marker of where they’ve been — and where they’re determined to go next.
