In a pulsating encounter at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, Mohammedan SC and FC Goa battled to a 1-1 draw on Saturday evening. The result marked Mohammedan SC’s first point in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season, while FC Goa managed to salvage a draw with a dramatic late equalizer.
Late Drama Continues ISL Trend
This match added to the growing trend of late injury-time goals that have become a hallmark of the opening two matchweeks of the season. The nail-biting finish kept spectators on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
Mohammedan SC Dominates Proceedings
The home side, Mohammedan SC, controlled the majority of the game, creating an impressive 17 chances throughout the match. Their dominance was evident in the statistics, with the team recording 31 touches in the opposition’s box compared to FC Goa’s mere 10.
Carlos Franca and Alexis Gomez were the standout performers for Mohammedan SC, each contributing three chances to their team’s attacking efforts.
First Half: Missed Opportunities
The first half saw Mohammedan SC create multiple scoring opportunities, with Franca and Gomez constantly troubling the Gaurs’ defense. Franca had the first clear chance in the 12th minute but failed to find the target from close range.
Moments later, a clever one-two pass between Franca and Lalremsanga in the penalty area almost resulted in a goal, but FC Goa’s Nim Dorjee made a crucial interception to deny the hosts.
Franca continued to be a constant threat, making numerous runs from different positions. His best opportunity came when he brilliantly lost his marker with a deft touch and unleashed a powerful shot that struck the crossbar, leaving the home fans in disbelief.
Second Half: Breakthrough and Heartbreak
The second half began with Mohammedan SC maintaining their attacking momentum. Franca once again tested FC Goa’s goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani with a long-range effort, but the custodian was up to the task.
The hosts’ persistence finally paid off in the 62nd minute when they were awarded a penalty after Odei Onaindia brought down Franca in the box. Alexis Gomez stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick, scoring Mohammedan SC’s historic first goal in the ISL.
However, just as victory seemed within grasp for the home side, FC Goa mounted a late comeback. In the fourth minute of stoppage time, Armando Sadiku rose high to meet a brilliant cross from Aakash Sangwan, heading the ball home and silencing the Kolkata crowd.
Standout Performances
Alexis Gomez was the star performer for Mohammedan SC, not only scoring the crucial penalty but also creating three chances for his teammates. The Argentine midfielder displayed his all-round skills, recording two shots on target and maintaining an impressive 83% passing accuracy.
What’s Next?
Mohammedan SC will travel to Chennai to face Chennaiyin FC on September 26 and FC Goa will remain in Kolkata to take on East Bengal FC on September 27.
Brief Scores
Mohammedan SC – 1 (Alexis Gomez 66’)
FC Goa – 1 (Armando Sadiku 90+4’)
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