MAPUSA, July 9 -- Xetrapal SC secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Saligao Sporting Club in the first quarter-final of the Assonora United Super Soccer Cup, organised by Assonora United FC and played at the Sinquerim ground, on Wednesday.

Both teams showcased an exciting brand of football in a closely contested encounter.

Xetrapal made an early breakthrough in just the 3rd minute of the match, when their mercurial striker Ashok found the back of the net after receiving a precise through ball from Chandrakant, making it 1-0.

However, Xetrapal's lead was short-lived, as Saligao responded swiftly and levelled the score just two minutes later, making it 1-1.

The second half saw both sides engage in a balanced battle, sharing equal exchanges ...