FC Goa roars into Durand Cup Semis with 4-1 win

by Chittu Shetty August 27, 2023

In a thrilling Durand Cup clash in Guwahati, FC Goa showcased an immense comeback attitude to secure a resounding 4-1 triumph over Chennaiyin FC and enter semis

The victory secured FC Goa’s place in the semifinals of the ongoing Durand Cup, marking another step forward in their pursuit of glory.

Chennaiyin FC took an early lead in the 5th minute when Bikash Yumnam capitalized on a corner-kick opportunity, catching the Goa defense off-guard and finding the back of the net. However, FC Goa swiftly responded with an attacking onslaught that would define the course of the match.

New signing Carl McHugh made an immediate impact, equalizing the scoreline in the 30th minute. A well-timed header from Noah Sadaoui found McHugh in a prime position, and he made no mistake in converting the opportunity, securing his debut goal for the club.

The momentum swung in favor of FC Goa, with Carlos Martinez stealing the spotlight in the 37th minute. Martinez displayed exceptional awareness as he spotted Chennaiyin FC goalkeeper Samik Mitra off his line, executing a perfectly calculated lob from beyond the six-yard box. The exquisite shot found the net, granting FC Goa a deserving lead.

The second half continued to deliver gripping moments as both teams pursued their goals relentlessly. FC Goa came close to extending their advantage, with Sandesh Jhingan’s header missing the mark by a narrow margin in the 63rd minute. A crucial save by goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh denied Chennaiyin FC’s Jordan Murray a potential equalizer in the 72nd minute.

As the match approached its conclusion, FC Goa displayed their offensive prowess once again. In the stoppage time of the second half, Noah Sadaoui capitalized on an assist from McHugh, demonstrating remarkable composure inside the six-yard box to extend FC Goa’s lead.

The icing on the cake came moments later when Victor Rodriguez, assisted by Boris Singh, sealed the deal with a final goal. The 4-1 victory highlighted FC Goa’s cohesive teamwork and clinical finishing.

Having secured the champions’ title in the 2021 edition of the Durand Cup, FC Goa is now poised to advance further in this year’s tournament. The team will eagerly await the outcome of the upcoming quarter-final clash between Mumbai City and Mohun Bagan Super Giant to determine their semifinal opponent.

FT: FC Goa (Mchugh 29′, Carlos 37′, Noah 90+2′, Victor 90+4′) 4 – 1 Chennaiyin FC (Bikash 5′)

Also Read: AFC Champions League 2023-24: Mumbai City FC set to challenge Neymar’s Al Hilal

Also Read: WIFA nominates Mumbai’s Millat FC for I-League 3rd Division

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest happenings in the world of Indian Football