He nets one as FC Goa beat Odisha 2-1, move to second place in table
Fatorda: FC Goa secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Odisha FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa, propelling themselves to second place in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 standings with 36 points, leapfrogging Jamshedpur FC (34). The Gaurs, under Manolo Marquez, displayed dominance at both ends of the pitch, registering six shots on target compared to Odisha’s two and making 15 interceptions to the Juggernauts’ seven.
Odisha FC nearly took the lead in the 28th minute when Ahmed Jahouh, making his 150th ISL appearance, struck a sublime free-kick from the left flank that rattled the crossbar. However, FC Goa capitalized on the shift in momentum just a minute later. Carl McHugh orchestrated a precise buildup, threading a pass into the left channel for Borja Herrera, who squared the ball into the box. Brison Fernandes reacted swiftly, adjusting his feet before rifling a low shot into the bottom right corner to give the hosts the advantage.
The visitors had a golden opportunity to equalize in the 38th minute when Diego Mauricio won a penalty after being fouled by Aakash Sangwan, who was subsequently booked. Mauricio stepped up for the spot-kick, but Hrithik Tiwari produced a brilliant diving save to preserve FC Goa’s lead.
