FC Goa were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against NorthEast United FC in a closely contested Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 clash at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Tuesday.
Mohammad Yasir’s 65th-minute strike gave the Gaurs the lead, but a composed finish from Jithin MS in the 76th minute ensured the spoils were shared.
The first half was a lively affair, with both teams creating opportunities but failing to convert. Goa’s Armando Sadiku had a golden chance to break the deadlock early on, but his header was directed straight at NorthEast goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh.
Moments later, NorthEast came agonizingly close when Alaaeddine Ajaraie’s audacious lob beat Goa goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari but struck the crossbar.
As halftime approached, Brison Fernandes almost gave the visitors the lead with a thunderous effort from the edge of the box, only to see it rattle the crossbar.
FC Goa started the second half with more composure and intent, controlling possession and probing the Highlanders’ defence. Their persistence paid off in the 65th minute when Jay Gupta delivered a teasing cross into the box.
Yasir’s initial header was blocked, but Brison Fernandes quickly recycled the ball, setting up Yasir for a deflected strike that left Gurmeet Singh rooted to the spot.
The goal spurred the hosts into action as they pushed for an equaliser. In the 76th minute, Ajaraie played a perfectly timed through ball to Jithin MS, who showed great composure to slot the ball into the far bottom corner, leaving Tiwari with no chance.
The final stages saw both teams battling for possession and a potential winner. Goa
pushed forward with intent but lacked creativity in the final third, while NorthEast defended resolutely to deny any late drama. For FC Goa, the result felt more like two points lost than one gained, as they climbed to second place in the standings with 27 points from 15 matches.
The Gaurs will now return home to prepare for their next assignment against East Bengal FC, set to be played at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on January 19.
