How Did FC Goa Secure Their Second Kalinga Super Cup Title?

Bhubaneswar, May 3 (NationPress) FC Goa celebrated a remarkable victory as they secured their second Kalinga Super Cup title, triumphing over Jamshedpur FC with a score of 3-0 in the final match. As the final whistle blew amidst a downpour at the Kalinga Stadium, it felt as though the skies were rejoicing in unison with FC Goa’s triumphant moment.

With their players joyously singing and dancing in the rain, the Gaurs lifted the Kalinga Super Cup 2025 in grand style, showcasing a commanding performance that promises to boost their confidence for the upcoming season. Borja was the standout performer, netting goals in the 22nd and 51st minutes, while Dejan Drazic sealed the victory with a goal in the 72nd minute.

This victory marked FC Goa’s first trophy under head coach Manolo Márquez, concluding his tenure with a fitting success. This win also signifies Goa's second overall Super Cup title, making them the first club to achieve this feat. Furthermore, it ensured their qualification for the AFC Champions League Two 2025-26, marking their return to an Asian club competition after a four-year hiatus.

The match was anticipated as a clash between FC Goa’s offensive prowess and Jamshedpur’s solid defense; however, by the end, it was evident which team had established dominance. While Jamshedpur, known for their defensive rigidity and counter-attacking strategy, had not conceded a single goal prior to this match, they struggled to handle Goa’s expansive style of play.

Despite Jamshedpur showing some early signs of promise, with Javier Hernandez forcing a swift save from Hrithik Tiwari in the third minute, the game quickly shifted in Goa’s favor. With Aakash Sangwan and Dejan Drazic aggressively pushing down the flanks, alongside Carl McHugh and Borja orchestrating play in midfield, Goa asserted control over both possession and territory.

The first goal came in the 23rd minute. A blistering run from Sangwan down the left led to a powerful shot that Albino Gomes could only deflect. Borja was quick to react to the rebound, and after his initial shot was blocked, he calmly slotted the second attempt into the net. Jamshedpur’s best opportunity came late in the first half when Lazar Cirkovic’s header struck the crossbar, revealing their lack of attacking vigor throughout.

FC Goa doubled their lead in the 51st minute through a spectacular moment. Borja, collecting the ball near midfield, advanced forward and unleashed a powerful 25-yard strike that found the top corner, leaving Gomes with no chance. Khalid Jamil’s squad attempted to mount a comeback, but Jordan Murray’s setup for Javier Siverio resulted in a missed opportunity as the forward shot wide from close range.

The third and final goal came in the 71st minute, demonstrating Goa’s composure and precision. McHugh delivered a perfectly timed through ball, allowing Drazic to round the keeper and tap the ball into an empty net.

As the match drew to a close and rain continued to fall, the atmosphere shifted to one of celebration as FC Goa’s players danced joyously, marking a historic moment in their journey.