Goemkarponn desk
Panaji: FC Goa rescued a crucial point in stoppage time to draw 1-1 against Indian Super League (ISL) debutants Mohammedan SC at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Saturday.
A dramatic header from Armando Sadiku in the dying moments of the match canceled out Alexis Gomez’s penalty, denying the Black Panthers a historic first victory in the league.
Manolo Marquez made three changes to the side that suffered a narrow loss to Jamshedpur FC last week, with Jay Gupta, Ayush Chhetri, and Borja Herrera coming into the starting XI. Despite those adjustments, FC Goa found it difficult to break down a well-organised Mohammedan SC defence. Though the Gaurs dominated possession, they struggled to convert their passing control into meaningful chances.
At the other end, the hosts posed a constant threat, creating several excellent opportunities. The Gaurs defence found it tough to contain the hosts, who looked dangerous on multiple occasions. Mohammedan’s relentless pressure was eventually rewarded in the 66th minute when they were awarded a penalty, which Alexis Gomez calmly dispatched to give his team a well-deserved lead.
The goal was Mohammedan’s first-ever in ISL history, and it looked like they were on the brink of securing their maiden victory in the competition.
However, the Men in Orange remained in the contest thanks to a heroic performance from goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani, who pulled off six crucial saves during the match. His commanding presence between the posts ensured that the Black Panthers could not capitalise on their numerous chances.
As the clock ticked into stoppage time, FC Goa pushed forward in search of an equaliser, and their persistence paid off.
In the fourth minute of added time, substitute Aakash Sangwan, who had come on earlier in the half, delivered a pinpoint cross from the left flank. Armando Sadiku, surrounded by defenders, rose high and powered home a bullet header from within the six-yard box to snatch a point for the visitors.
While Mohammedan SC may feel disappointed at missing out on a landmark victory, FC Goa’s late rally, coupled with Sadiku’s last-minute effort and Kattimani’s brilliance in goal, ensured the Gaurs left Kolkata with something to show for their efforts.
Next up for FC Goa is another assignment away from home, when they face East Bengal FC next Friday, once again in Kolkata.
