Margao, April 10 (NationPress) In the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 clash held at the PJN Stadium in Margao, Goa, FC Goa achieved a convincing 3-1 victory over Odisha FC thanks to second-half goals from Dejan Dražić, Pol Moreno, and Brison Fernandes, while Suhair VP netted a late goal for Odisha.

The Gaurs ended their streak of draws and a defeat, climbing to fifth place in the league standings with 13 points, while Odisha FC fell to twelfth with just five points. Ayush Chhetri was named the Player of the Match for his impressive performance in midfield.

Head coach Manolo Márquez made four changes to the starting lineup, giving a debut to 21-year-old goalkeeper Bob Jackson Raj. He also brought in Mohammed Yasir, Harsh Shailesh Patre, and Ayush Chhetri to bolster the midfield. On the other hand, Odisha FC’s head coach T.G. Purushothaman opted to keep his lineup unchanged for the third consecutive match.

The first half was a tactical battle, with both teams enjoying possession but failing to create clear goal-scoring opportunities. Rahul KP was particularly active for The Juggernauts, putting pressure on the Goa defense with two early shots. Meanwhile, the hosts faced multiple offside calls as they attempted to generate attacking plays. Odisha pressed from distance, with Rahul forcing a save from debutant goalkeeper Bob Jackson, who showed poise in goal. At the other end, Udanta Singh nearly scored after a quick run into the box, but Amrinder Singh was up to the task, blocking the shot at the near post.

Set-pieces emerged as a potential source of goals for both sides. Pol Moreno headed directly at the goalkeeper, and Subham Bhattacharya came close but missed narrowly, resulting in a goalless first half.

After the break, the pace of the game intensified. Odisha nearly took the lead when Rahim Ali created space for Isak Vanlalruatfela, but Bob Jackson made another vital save to maintain the deadlock.

In the 62nd minute, FC Goa broke the deadlock with a beautifully executed play. Ayush Chhetri delivered a pinpoint ball over the defense to Dejan Dražić, whose chance was aided by a deflection from Carlos Delgado. Dražić reacted quickly, slotting the ball past Amrinder to make it 1-0.

With their confidence soaring, Goa continued to press. Substitute Abdul Rabeeh brought fresh energy, creating a chance for Aakash Sangwan, whose shot was saved. Rabeeh also took a long-range shot that went off target. In the 81st minute, Goa doubled their lead via a free-kick. Pol Moreno took the set-piece, striking a low shot through the wall, which took two bounces before finding the back of the net, making it 2-0.

The hosts cemented their victory in stoppage time when Rabeeh was fouled in the box. Brison Fernandes confidently converted the penalty, placing the ball in the left corner to extend the score to 3-0. Odisha managed a consolation goal moments later when Edwin Vanspaul provided a cross for Suhair VP, who finished from close range, concluding the match at 3-1.

The final whistle confirmed a well-deserved victory for FC Goa, who capitalized on their second-half opportunities to secure all three points at home.