FC Goa continued their strong run in the Indian Super League 2025-26 with a clinical 2-0 victory over NorthEast United FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Friday.
The Gaurs climbed to second place in the standings with 19 points from 10 matches, registering their third consecutive win. NorthEast United, meanwhile, remain in 12th place with seven points.
FC Goa made a bright start and took the lead in the 20th minute through Dejan Dražić. The move was initiated by Muhammed Nemil, who produced a clever lofted pass from deep to release the winger. Dražić held off pressure from fullback Mayakkannan before finishing with a precise right-footed strike into the bottom corner.
The visitors maintained control through the first half, dominating possession and restricting NorthEast United to limited opportunities. Captain Sandesh Jhingan led the defensive effort, marshalling the backline effectively and making crucial interceptions. His commanding performance later earned him the Player of the Match award.
NorthEast United had their moments early on. Redeem Tlang tested goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari with a long-range effort, while Brison Fernandes made a promising run down the left but failed to find a teammate. Jithin MS also came close after being played through by Lalrinzuala, only to be denied by Tiwari.
© AIFF MediaDražić’s outing, however, was cut short due to injury, with Abdul Rabeeh coming on as a substitute. Rabeeh quickly settled into the game, linking up well with Udanta Singh and creating chances, including a close effort from Nemil that narrowly missed the target.
FC Goa continued to dictate the tempo after the break, with Nemil forcing a strong save from goalkeeper Gurmeet with a curling free-kick. Despite increased urgency from the hosts, including attacking combinations between Jithin MS and substitute Parthib Gogoi, clear chances remained scarce.
The Gaurs remained disciplined at the back, with Jhingan and the defensive unit neutralising repeated attacking phases and corners from NorthEast United. Goa also posed a threat on the counter, with Rabeeh and Ayush Chhetri testing the defence without extending the lead.
The result was sealed deep into stoppage time. Substitute Huidrom Thoi Singh initiated the move before Aakash Sangwan delivered a cross from the left. The ball reached Mohammed Yasir on the right, who controlled it before curling a superb left-footed effort into the top corner off the post in the 93rd minute.
FC Goa comfortably saw out the remaining minutes to secure all three points.
© AIFF Media
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