By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

Don Bosco High School, Borivali, created history by emerging as the Champions of the Mumbai School Sports Association (MSSA) World Cup Fiesta 2026 – Under-16 Boys Inter-School Football Tournament, held at the MSSA Schools Sports Centre, Azad Maidan, Mumbai. This remarkable achievement marks the school's first-ever MSSA U-16 Football Championship, making it a landmark moment in the rich sporting legacy of Don Bosco.

The road to the championship was nothing short of extraordinary. Displaying immense determination, tactical discipline, and unwavering team spirit, Don Bosco Borivali overcame some of Mumbai's strongest school football teams in a series of thrilling knockout encounters.

In the Quarter-finals, Don Bosco Borivali faced fellow Salesian institution Don Bosco Matunga. After a highly competitive match, the teams remained level, taking the contest into a penalty shootout. Holding their nerve under pressure, Don Bosco Borivali emerged victorious 4-2 on penalties, booking a place in the semi-finals.

The Semi-final saw Don Bosco take on the formidable AVM Juhu. Once again, the match proved to be a tense and closely fought battle, with neither side able to secure a decisive advantage during regulation time. The outcome was once again decided by penalties, where Don Bosco Borivali showcased remarkable composure to register another 4-2 shootout victory, earning a well-deserved place in the grand finale.

The Final pitted Don Bosco Borivali against the defending Division-I champions, Cathedral & John Connon School, Fort. Both teams displayed exceptional defensive organisation and attacking intent throughout the match, but neither could find the breakthrough, resulting in a goalless draw after full time. The championship was ultimately decided through a dramatic penalty shootout.

In a nerve-wracking finish, Don Bosco Borivali held their composure to triumph 4-3 on penalties. Goalkeeper Jaden Pinto emerged as the hero by making the decisive match-winning save, while Travis Pereira, Jaden Pinto, Marc Fernandes, and Umang Gaikwad confidently converted their penalties to seal a famous victory.

For their outstanding achievement, the team was presented with the Championship Trophy, a cash prize of ₹25,000, and certificates for every team member.

This historic triumph reflects the players' relentless hard work, resilience, and unity, along with the exceptional guidance of Coach Everest, whose dedication and meticulous preparation played a pivotal role throughout the tournament. The entire Don Bosco High School, Borivali, community, led by Principal Fr Ranson D'Souza, proudly congratulates the players, coaching staff, and everyone who contributed to this memorable success. This landmark victory will remain a proud chapter in the school's sporting history and will inspire future generations of Don Bosco footballers to aim even higher.