Dempo SC were crowned champions of the GFA Charity Match 2026-27 after defeating Sporting on penalties following an entertaining 1-1 draw at the Raia Ground.

The contest had everything expected from a cup final, with an early Dempo goal, a late first-half equaliser, several missed opportunities after the break and a tense penalty shootout. Dempo eventually held their nerve to win 5-3 on penalties and lift the trophy.

Dempo started brightly and deservedly took the lead in the 22nd minute. Stenis delivered a well-weighted cross into the danger area, with Murphy Fernandes in the right position to finish from close range and give the goalkeeper no chance.

The champions came close to extending their advantage just three minutes later. Swavel Furtado tried his luck from distance, but his effort clipped the outside of the post and went wide.

Sporting gradually found their rhythm and continued to push for an equaliser. Their persistence finally paid off deep into first-half added time when Ashnoy created space for Sanson Pereira. The midfielder produced a superb finish that left Dempo goalkeeper Deep with no chance, sending the teams into the break level at 1-1.

Sporting returned for the second half with greater attacking intent, and Pereira came close to putting his side ahead after driving through on goal. However, Jordic Abranches produced a perfectly timed defensive block to deny him.

Dempo also had a golden opportunity to regain the lead midway through the half. Furtado found himself with a chance to score, but his effort struck the crossbar as Sporting survived another scare.

With neither side able to find a decisive goal in normal time, the match went to a penalty shootout.

Dempo proved to be the more composed team from the spot. Goalkeeper Jacob made crucial saves when it mattered, while Dempo’s penalty takers converted their opportunities to secure a 5-3 shootout victory and claim the GFA Charity Match crown.