Looking back at when Salgaocar FC created history

A few weeks back Salgaocar FC stopped their senior team operations.

Salgaocar FC, a legendary football club that has been in existence since 1956, holds a special place in the annals of Indian football. However, just a few weeks ago, the club made a shocking revelation that it would be ceasing its senior team operations, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of achievements and contributions to the sport. However, their junior team operations will continue.

Salgaocar FC was the first Goan club to win titles in various prestigious competitions, including the Goa Super Division, Federation Cup, Goa Professional League, Durand Cup, and the Indian Super Cup. Let's take a journey back in time to explore the historic moments and successes that defined this illustrious club.

One of the most notable achievements for Salgaocar FC came in the 1998-99 season when they clinched the National Football League (now known as the I-League) title. It was a significant milestone, marking their emergence as one of the dominant forces in Indian football. Salgaocar FC also finished as runners-up in the National Football League in the 2002-03 season and secured third place in two editions - 1997-98 and 1999-2000.

The club's success extended beyond the National Football League. In the 2010-11 season, Salgaocar FC claimed the I-League title, further cementing their reputation as a formidable team in the Indian football landscape. They also emerged victorious in the National Football League II in the 2006-07 season and triumphed in the I-League 2nd division in the 2008-09 season, showcasing their consistency and ability to perform across different competitions.

In Goa, Salgaocar FC's dominance was unparalleled for a major period of time. The club secured an astounding 22 Goa Football League titles throughout its existence. They clinched the championship in seasons such as 1960-61, 1962-63, 1963-64, 1965-66, 1974-75, 1977-78, 1981-82, 1982-83, 1984-85, 1985-86, 1988-89, 1990-91, 1992-93, 1994-95, 1998, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2011, 2012-13, 2014-15, and 2016-17.

Salgaocar FC also left an indelible mark in cup competitions. They won the Federation Cup, one of the most prestigious tournaments in Indian football, on four occasions, triumphing in 1988, 1989, 1997, and 2011. The club finished as runners-up in the Federation Cup three times - in 1987, 1990, and 1993. Salgaocar FC also tasted success in the Indian Super Cup, lifting the trophy twice in 1998 and 1999, while finishing as runners-up in 2011. Their dominance extended to the Durand Cup, where they emerged victorious on three occasions (1999, 2003, and 2014).

In addition to their triumphs in major competitions, Salgaocar FC made its presence felt in several other tournaments. They secured the Rovers Cup thrice, emerging champions in 1989-90, 1996, and 1999. The club also finished as runners-up in the Rovers Cup in 1985. Salgaocar FC showcased their skills on a national level, finishing as runners-up in the Bordoloi Trophy in 1985. They clinched the Sait Nagjee Football Tournament in 1988 and finished as runners-up in 1985 and 1989.

Salgaocar FC's success extended to regional tournaments as well. They won the Goa Governor's Cup twice (1999 and 2001) and claimed the Bandodkar Gold Trophy thrice (1981, 1988, and 1992). The club also finished as runners-up in the Bandodkar Gold Trophy on five occasions (1970, 1979, 1982, 1984, and 1990).

Salgaocar FC showcased their prowess by winning the Puttiah Memorial Trophy in 1978 and finishing as runners-up in 1977. The club secured the Goa Police Cup in 1978 and finished as runners-up in 1970 and 2015. They emerged victorious in the Nehru Club Cup in 1985 and finished as runners-up in the Stafford Challenge Cup in 1984. Salgaocar FC also reached the finals of the AWES Cup in 2018.

Despite their remarkable achievements, Salgaocar FC faced challenges in recent years. The club made the difficult decision to withdraw from the I-League in the 2016-17 season, citing bias against the league by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). While the senior team operations may have ceased, Salgaocar FC's legacy lives on. The club's youth academy, which has produced several talented players over the years, continues to nurture and develop the next generation of football stars. move marked the end of an era for Salgaocar FC and left a void in Indian football.

Looking back, Salgaocar FC's journey is a testament to their legacy and contribution to Goan and Indian football. The club's numerous titles and consistent performances established them as one of the most successful and respected football institutions in the country. While their departure from the football scene is undoubtedly a loss, the memories of Salgaocar FC's historic achievements will forever remain etched in the hearts of football enthusiasts and serve as an inspiration for future generations of players and clubs.