Day three of the Silver Cup 2025 began with heartfelt tributes to Martin “Chochan” Garrahan and Rufino Laulhe, who tragically passed away earlier in the week. Players honored their memory with a poignant one-minute tribute before the start of both matches, uniting the polo community in a moment of reflection and respect.
Following this solemn moment, the tournament resumed with another thrilling display of polo. The day opened with an electrifying match between Ghantoot Polo and Dubai Wolves, showcasing remarkable skill, sportsmanship, and the enduring spirit of the sport. Ghantoot Polo set the tone early, securing an impressive three goals within the first three minutes of the opening chukker. Their dynamic start established a blistering pace that promised an exciting contest ahead. However, the Dubai Wolves were quick to respond, narrowing the gap before the chukker concluded. Chukker three was a testament to the Wolves’ resilience, highlighted by remarkable interceptions from Habtoor Al Habtoor. The team continued to challenge Ghantoot at every turn, keeping the pressure on throughout the match. Marcos Araya was a standout for Ghantoot, delivering stunning plays and scoring extraordinary goals that ultimately sealed their victory in a gripping encounter.
It was a fantastic display of determination and skill, making the first match of the day a memorable one for players and spectators alike.
Player Substitutions: Benjamin Urquiza took the field for Santiago Laborde of Dubai Wolves, who is recovering from an injury sustained in the previous match..
Match Progression:
Ghantoot Polo vs. Dubai Wolves
3 – 3 | 6 – 3| 8 – 5 | 9 – 5 | 11 – 5
Top scorer & MVP: Marco Araya
The second match of the day brought an electrifying showdown between Habtoor Polo and UAE Polo, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. UAE Polo set the tone early, with Lucas Monteverde opening the scoring and demonstrating their determination to dominate. Throughout the game, UAE Polo delivered a strong performance, keeping Habtoor Polo under constant pressure. A perfectly executed penalty shot by Monteverde in the second chukker widened the gap, putting UAE Polo firmly in control by the third chukker.
Despite the uphill battle, Habtoor Polo fought back valiantly, with Bautista Bayugar firing off two impressive goals to keep the game alive. However, UAE Polo’s unwavering teamwork, led by the strategic brilliance of Monteverde and the swift, precise plays of Tomas Lacau, proved too much to overcome. Their coordinated runs and expertly placed shots secured the victory for UAE Polo. A last-minute goal by Mohammed Al Habtoor offered a bittersweet moment for Habtoor Polo as the final hooter sounded, closing an exhilarating match that showcased exceptional skill and tenacity from both teams.
Match Progression:
Habtoor Polo vs. UAE Polo
0 – 2 | 2 – 5| 3 – 7 | 3 – 11 | 6 – 14
Top scorer & MVP: Marcos Araya
The next qualification matches of the Silver Cup 2025 will be on the Saturday 25th of January:
14:00 – UAE Polo s vs. Ghantoot Polo
16:00 – Bangash Polo vs. Dubai Wolves
