FC Goa

Mohammedan SC Denied Historic Win as Armando Sadiku’s Late Goal Rescues FC Goa in a 1-1 Draw – Match 10

Mohammedan SC were denied their first ISL victory as Armando Sadiku’s stoppage-time header rescued FC Goa in a 1-1 draw at Kishore Bharati Stadium. Mohammedan took the lead through Alexis Gomez’s penalty, but Sadiku’s late goal earned the visitors a point

by
whistleindia
September 23, 2024

In an exciting ISL 2024-25 match on September 21, 2024, Mohammedan SC and FC Goa battled to a 1-1 draw at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan Stadium in Kolkata. Both teams were searching for their first win of the season, and the match delivered high drama, especially in the closing minutes.

First Half: A Competitive Start

The first half saw Mohammedan SC assert their dominance early, pressing forward with intensity and creativity. The home side, backed by a passionate crowd, created multiple chances through Carlos Henrique Franca and Alexis Gomez. Despite their efforts, the breakthrough didn’t come in the first half, as FC Goa’s goalkeeper, Laxmikant Kattimani, put on a brilliant display, denying Mohammedan’s best efforts, including a close-range shot by Franca that hit the crossbar.

FC Goa, though largely on the back foot, had some attacking moments of their own, but they struggled to break through Mohammedan’s defense, marshaled by Joseph Adjei. The first half ended 0-0, with Mohammedan clearly the stronger team but unable to capitalize on their chances.

Second Half: Mohammedan Takes the Lead

The second half started with Mohammedan continuing their offensive momentum. Their persistence paid off in the 66th minute when Alexis Gomez converted a penalty, giving Mohammedan a deserved 1-0 lead. The penalty was awarded after Odei Onaindia fouled Franca in the box, and Gomez calmly slotted the ball past Kattimani, sending the home fans into celebration.

With the lead in hand, Mohammedan continued to push for a second goal, but FC Goa slowly grew into the game. Coach Manolo Marquez made tactical adjustments, bringing on Aakash Sangwan and Rowlin Borges to add more dynamism to their attack.

Late Drama: Sadiku Saves FC Goa

As the match entered stoppage time, FC Goa finally found their equalizer. In the 94th minute, Armando Sadiku delivered a brilliant header off a cross from Aakash Sangwan, leveling the score at 1-1. It was a heart-breaking moment for Mohammedan, who had controlled much of the game but failed to see out the win. Sadiku’s goal marked his second of the season, rescuing a point for the visitors and denying Mohammedan their first-ever ISL victory.

Key Performers

Alexis Gomez (Mohammedan SC): The Argentine midfielder was instrumental for Mohammedan, scoring the penalty and creating several chances. His performance earned him the Player of the Match title.
Armando Sadiku (FC Goa): Sadiku’s late equalizer was crucial in salvaging a point for Goa. His positioning and header in stoppage time ensured that his team avoided defeat.

Conclusion

This result leaves FC Goa in eighth place and Mohammedan SC in ninth, with both teams earning their first point of the season. For Mohammedan, it was a case of missed opportunities, as they controlled much of the game but couldn’t hold on for the win. FC Goa, on the other hand, will be relieved to have escaped with a point after a largely underwhelming performance.

Mohammedan will next face Chennaiyin FC on September 26, while FC Goa will take on East Bengal FC on September 27.