MAPUSA, Dec. 25 -- Team Herald [emailprotected]

Goa produced their most complete display of the group stage to defeat Karnataka 2-0 in the concluding match of 79th National Football Championship Santosh Trophy 2025-26 Group H fixture, finishing the campaign with four points and on a positive note. Karnataka dominated possession for much of the first half, pinning Goa back and testing their defensive organisation. Goa, however, remained compact and disciplined, limiting the hosts to few clear chances. The breakthrough came against the run of play in first-half stoppage time. In the 45+2 minute, Arnold Oliveira initiated the move before finding Stendly Fernandes, who combined neatly with Vellington Fernandes. With Karnataka's defence caugh...