ISL 2024-25: FC Goa Triumphs Over Punjab FC 1-0 to Strengthen Second-Place Aspirations
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Synopsis
In a thrilling encounter, FC Goa edged past Punjab FC with a 1-0 win, thanks to Carl McHugh's late first-half goal. This victory solidifies Goa's position in second place in the ISL standings, boosting their chances for a semifinal berth.
Key Takeaways
- FC Goa secured a vital 1-0 victory against Punjab FC.
- Carl McHugh scored the decisive goal in the first half.
- Goa now has 45 points, solidifying their second-place position.
- Punjab FC remains in 11th place with 24 points.
- FC Goa's next match is against Mohammedan SC on March 4.
New Delhi, Feb 27 (NationPress) Carl McHugh netted the only goal of the match, leading FC Goa to a 1-0 triumph over Punjab FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Thursday, reinforcing their position in second place on the leaderboard. The Gaurs accumulated 45 points from 22 matches, firmly establishing their hold on the second position, which could assure them a direct entry into the semifinals.
They now lead the third and fourth-placed teams, Bengaluru FC and Jamshedpur FC, by eight points each, although the latter have three matches in hand to narrow the gap. Meanwhile, Punjab FC sits in the 11th position with 24 points from 22 games.
FC Goa exhibited a strong start, showcasing fluidity in their play both in open play and set pieces. They executed a well-structured corner kick in the eighth minute, with Borja Herrera delivering a precise ball to Odei Onaindia at the far post. Instead of attempting a direct shot, Onaindia redirected the ball with a header to Carl McHugh.
Goalkeeper Muheet Shabir Khan made a crucial save in the ninth minute, denying the effort from reaching the goal. McHugh eventually found the net just before halftime, after a long throw-in from Udanta Singh set him up perfectly. The Irish midfielder sprinted into the Punjab FC box and struck the ball into the bottom left corner with his left foot, giving the Gaurs a lead as they headed into the break.
Punjab FC showed signs of life early in the second half, pressing forward for a brief period. They adopted a more direct strategy, exemplified by Ricky Shabong's long-range attempt in the 57th minute, which was calmly saved by Hrithik Tiwari.
The desire to equalize remained strong for Punjab FC. Petros Giakoumakis made a notable play in the 64th minute, skillfully controlling a loose ball before launching a powerful shot that narrowly missed the top right corner of the goal.
Just eight minutes later, Giakoumakis turned provider, passing to Tekcham Singh outside the box. Singh opted for a long-distance shot instead of building the play further, but his attempt was blocked by the visiting defense.
Punjab FC continued to push for a goal until the final whistle. In the 87th minute, they had Ninthoinganba Meetei and Khaiminthang Lhungdim positioned near the goal, but Lhungdim's left-footed shot sailed high and wide, ending a night filled with missed opportunities for the home side.
FC Goa's next match is against Mohammedan SC on March 4, while Punjab FC will face Hyderabad FC on March 6.
