10-Man Punjab FC Hold FC Goa in Hard-Fought 1–1 Draw

by Chandler D'silva March 17, 2026

Punjab FC produced a determined display with ten men to secure a 1–1 draw against FC Goa in the Indian Super League 2025–26 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on March 16.

The hosts made a bright start, taking control of possession and creating early pressure, especially down the flanks. Their efforts paid off in the 27th minute when Manglenthang Kipgen played a perfectly weighted through ball to Nsungusi Jr. Effiong, who showed great composure to curl a left-footed finish into the top corner and give Punjab the lead.

Punjab continued to look threatening before half-time, with Dani Ramírez and Kipgen both trying their luck from distance, while Nsungusi Jr also tested the goalkeeper. FC Goa, however, nearly found an equaliser in stoppage time but failed to convert their chances as Punjab went into the break with a narrow advantage.

The game took a dramatic turn early in the second half when Punjab were reduced to ten men after Nsungusi Jr was shown a straight red card just minutes after the restart.

FC Goa quickly capitalised on their numerical advantage. In the 53rd minute, Dejan Dražić received the ball outside the box and struck a precise shot into the bottom corner to level the score at 1–1.

With the extra man, Goa pushed forward in search of a winner and created several opportunities. Udanta Singh came close with a header, while Dražić and Raynier Fernandes both had chances but failed to find the target.

Despite the pressure, Punjab remained compact and disciplined at the back. Goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh played a key role in keeping his side in the game, making crucial saves in the closing stages.

In the end, Punjab FC held firm to earn a valuable point, while FC Goa were left to settle for a draw despite dominating much of the second half.

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