In a high-octane showdown in the Matchweek 4 of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 campaign, FC Goa and NorthEast United FC shared the spoils in a thrilling 3-3 draw at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa on Friday. The contest, marked by spectacular attacking play from both sides, left fans on the edge of their seats until the very last moment, when Borja Herrera delivered a stoppage-time equalizer to deny NorthEast United a victory that seemed certain until late in the game.
The Highlanders, known for their dynamic and adaptable offensive approach, seized the momentum early in the match. Their frontline, comprising Jithin M.S., Alaeddine Ajaraie, and Nestor Albiach, posed constant threats by frequently rotating positions. Their strategy paid dividends as early as the sixth minute, when Nestor Albiach skillfully navigated through the FC Goa defense, slicing through with ease, before slipping the ball past goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani and into the net. The goal was a testament to his agility and precision, leaving the Goan defenders rooted to the spot.
As NorthEast United FC continued to press, Ajaraie nearly doubled their advantage moments later, keeping the Gaurs’ defense on high alert. FC Goa, on their part, had a moment of contention when they appealed for a penalty after Armando Sadiku was brought down in the box by Michel Zabaco. However, the referee waved away the claims, leaving the home side searching for answers.
Despite this setback, Armando Sadiku had the golden opportunity to restore parity for FC Goa but squandered a chance from close range after an impeccable low cross from Dejan Drazic. The missed opportunity seemed to deflate the hosts temporarily, but their resolve did not waver. NorthEast United continued to probe, with Jithin showcasing his skill with a precise ball to Ajaraie, whose attempt was heroically blocked by Odei Onaindia.
Right before half-time, FC Goa found relief as they were awarded a penalty after Mohammed Ali Bemammer’s challenge on Drazic was deemed illegal. Sadiku approached the spot-kick with composure and struck powerfully to level the score, igniting the contest just before the whistle for the break.
The second half commenced with FC Goa making an immediate impact.
. Boris Singh, keen to turn the tide, won the ball in a dangerous position and quickly set Ayush Chhetri loose in the box. Chhetri delivered a masterful low cross to Sadiku, who made no mistake, driving FC Goa into a 2-1 lead in the 47th minute.
Not to be outdone, the visitors, under the astute guidance of coach Juan Pedro Benali, responded with flair and determination. The trio of Jithin, Ajaraie, and Nestor once again combined effectively, with Nestor leveling the scores in the 51st minute with a firm strike that left Kattimani with no chance. In a show of tactical acumen, Ajaraie turned from provider to scorer within minutes. Winning the ball in midfield, he surged forward and unleashed a ferocious left-footed drive from outside the area, reclaiming the lead for NorthEast United.
As the game entered the closing stages, FC Goa intensified their efforts for an equalizer. Akash Sangwan came close with a well-timed effort, but Gurmeet Singh, standing tall for the Highlanders, thwarted him with a full-stretched save. However, the relentless pressure from the Gaurs eventually paid off deep into stoppage time when Borja Herrera, collaborating finely with Drazic, blasted the ball home, sending the local fans into a frenzy and securing a point in dramatic fashion.
The action did not end there, as FC Goa almost clinched what would have been a sensational late winner. Drazic found himself with a glimpse of goal, but Gurmeet Singh’s exceptional goalkeeping denied the Gaurs the three points. Adding to the late drama, young defender Robin Yadav was dismissed in the dying moments for a second bookable offense, after blocking Brison Fernandes without the ball.
As the dust settled on an exhilarating encounter, both teams turned their focus towards their next fixtures. NorthEast United FC are set to host Chennaiyin FC at their home ground on October 17, while FC Goa will prepare to welcome Mumbai City FC on October 19. Fans will undoubtedly look forward to these upcoming matches, hoping for more of the action and intensity that the ISL has become renowned for.
This article has been drafted based on information from syndicated feeds, and ownership of the content remains with the original sources.
