FC Goa’s remarkable Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 league campaign concluded on Saturday night with a hard-fought 2-0 defeat to Mohun Bagan Super Giant at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata.
Despite the result, the Gaurs wrapped up their league season with a record-breaking 48 points from 24 matches – their highest-ever tally in ISL history – securing a direct semi-final berth alongside their Kolkata counterparts.
From the outset, both teams traded early blows. In the 3rd minute, Greg Stewart’s shot from outside the box was blocked by the Goan defence, setting the tone for a tactical battle. Moments later, Dimitri Petratos fired narrowly wide after being set up by Stewart from a set-piece situation.
FC Goa found their rhythm soon after, with Iker Guarrotxena coming agonisingly close in the 17th minute, his right-footed shot flashing past the post after a quick break orchestrated by Borja Herrera.
Udanta Singh and Carl McHugh also tested MBSG’s defensive mettle, the latter forcing a fine save from the opposition goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh in the 20th minute.
A moment of controversy arrived just before halftime when Manvir Singh thought he had broken the deadlock for Mohun Bagan, only for his goal to be ruled out due to a handball in the buildup. FC Goa entered the break with their defensive structure intact, having effectively stifled their high-flying opponents.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 63rd minute, albeit in the most unfortunate fashion for the Gaurs. A long ball floated into the Goa box saw Boris Singh attempt to cushion a header back to Hrithik Tiwari, only for the goalkeeper to be caught off position, helplessly watching as the ball rolled into the net.
An own goal was the only way the Mariners could take the lead – an indicator of how well the Men in Orange had shut them out.
FC Goa refused to back down, responding with waves of attacks. Armando Sadiku’s shot drifted narrowly wide in the 66th minute, while Borja Herrera and Dejan Drazic both went close as time ticked away. But it was the home side who had the final say, Greg Stewart finally registering MBSG’s first shot on target in the 94th minute. His well-placed finish sealed the game, but it was a battle that showcased Goa’s defensive steel.
Looking ahead to the knockouts
Despite the result, FC Goa can hold their heads high, having delivered their second-best finish in ISL history after topping the table in 2015 and 2019-20. Their 48-point haul is a testament to their consistency and tactical evolution under head coach Manolo Marquez.
With a direct berth into the ISL Cup semi-finals secured, the Gaurs will now shift their
focus to the knockout rounds, where they will look to channel the resilience displayed in Kolkata into a final push for silverware.
