FC Goa vs Fortress Mohun Bagan, The Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa witnessed a thrilling upset on February 14th, 2024, as Mohun Bagan defied expectations to defeat FC Goa 1-0 in the Indian Super League (ISL) encounter. The Goan Mariners, known for their resolute defense and home advantage, were stunned by a clinical finish from substitute Kiyan Nassiri late in the second half, leaving the packed stadium in stunned silence.
FC Goa Starts Positive, Mohun Bagan Defends Grittily: FC Goa vs Fortress Mohun Bagan
FC Goa, unbeaten in their last 12 home games and aiming to extend their run, started the match on the front foot. Jorge Ortiz and Devendra Murgaokar created early chances, but the Mohun Bagan defense, marshaled by the experienced Sandesh Jhingan, stood firm.
Chances Go Begging, Frustration Mounts:
As the first half progressed, FC Goa continued to dominate possession. But lacked the cutting edge to break down the resolute Mohun Bagan backline. Brandon Fernandes and Edu Bedia pulled the strings in midfield, but their final passes were often intercepted or misread. Frustration started to creep in amongst the home fans as the half-time whistle blew with the scoreline locked at 0-0.
Kiyan Nassiri Steps Up, Mohun Bagan Steals Victory:
The second half mirrored the first, with FC Goa searching for the elusive breakthrough. However, the tide turned in the 78th minute when Kiyan Nassiri. Was introduced off the bench and latched onto a hopeful long ball from Pritam Kotal. He expertly controlled the ball, evaded the FC Goa defense, and slotted it past the onrushing goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh. Sending the traveling Mohun Bagan fans into raptures.
FC Goa Pushes, But Time Runs Out:
FC Goa threw everything they had at the Mohun Bagan defense in the remaining minutes, desperately searching for an equalizer. Lenny Rodrigues and Ishan Pandita came close, but their efforts were thwarted by the resolute visitors. The final whistle blew, confirming a historic victory for Mohun Bagan and leaving the Goan faithful heartbroken.
