Kolkata/Delhi, 9 March (H.S.): Mohun Bagan Super Giant triumphed over FC Goa, securing a 2-0 victory in the 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Saturday. The match saw Boris Singh inadvertently score an own goal, followed by a late strike from Greg Stewart, keeping Mohun Bagan unbeaten at home this season.
The game commenced with high energy, captivating over 60,000 fans in attendance. Both Greg Stewart and Dimitri Petratos attempted to find the back of the net, although Hrithik Tiwary in goal for Goa remained untroubled. Aakash Sangwan was cautioned for pulling back Manvir Singh during a counterattack.
In the 17th minute, Iker Guarrotxena had a promising opportunity to score, but his effort went just wide after a pass from Borja Herrera. Mohun Bagan then started asserting their dominance, putting pressure on FC Goa’s defenders Odei Onaindia and Sandesh Jhingan. Liston Colaco came close to scoring in the 25th minute, but his shot was impeded as he found himself in an advantageous position.
Tension escalated in the Mariners’ penalty box when Dheeraj Singh cleared a free-kick, causing chaos among defenders. Coaches Joe Molina and Manolo Marquez designed strategies limiting control in midfield. Controversy erupted during first-half stoppage time when Boris Singh’s mistake allowed Manvir to assist Petratos, whose goal was disallowed for a handball. The second half commenced scoreless, with Armando Sadiku substituting Carl McHugh for FC Goa, and Dippendu Biswas replacing a booked Asish Rai. In the 62nd minute, Boris Singh fouled Liston, earning a yellow card. His attempted back-header to keeper Hrithik found the unguarded net, leading to jubilant celebrations from Mohun Bagan fans.
The match featured an increase in yellow cards for players Ashique Kuruniyan, Alberto Rodriguez, and Odei. Manolo adjusted tactics by substituting Seriton Fernandes and Muhammed Nemil, followed by further changes after a water break. The game maintained a charged atmosphere, with teams striving for momentum, showcasing competitive spirit and intensity as they aimed to score and gain an advantage.
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
