ISL 2024-25: Brison Fernandes Scores Twice to Lead FC Goa Past Mohun Bagan, Maintaining Unbeaten Run
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Fatorda (Goa), Dec 20 (NationPress) Brison Fernandes netted a stunning brace as FC Goa maintained their unbeaten run, achieving a 2-1 victory over the league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday night.
Fernandes' goals in both halves propelled the Gaurs to secure all three points, while Dimitrios Petratos managed to pull one back for the visitors with a penalty. The Mariners, despite taking 12 shots compared to the home side's nine, struggled in front of goal, missing several key opportunities.
The match began slowly, with both teams contesting possession in midfield. FC Goa struck first in the 12th minute, with Fernandes facing off against Asish Rai on the left before unleashing a shot that deflected off Tom Aldred and caught Vishal Kaith off-guard.
Despite conceding, Mohun Bagan Super Giant maintained control over possession and the midfield, yet the Gaurs defended resolutely and sought to exploit counter-attacks, led by the pace of Fernandes and Mohammed Yasir.
Mohun Bagan's initial shot on goal came from a corner, where Alberto Rodriguez rose to head the ball towards goal, but Hrithik Tiwari made a solid save. The best chance for the visitors arrived just before halftime when Dimitrios Petratos failed to capitalize on a good cross from Manvir Singh, sending the ball over the bar.
At the start of the second half, the Mariners intensified their efforts, with Sahal Abdul Samad attempting a long-range shot that was expertly saved by Hrithik. Their persistence finally paid off in the 55th minute when Petratos converted a penalty after Armando Sadiku handled the ball in the box.
Following the equalizer, Jose Molina substituted Petratos with Jason Cummings, but FC Goa responded by pushing forward and creating chances. In the 64th minute, Sadiku was unmarked but failed to connect properly.
Just four minutes later, Fernandes completed his brace, heading the ball home from a lovely cross by Borja. The Mariners attempted to respond quickly but Jamie Maclaren missed a crucial chance from a rapid counter-attack.
In the 74th minute, Manolo Marquez made attacking changes, bringing on Iker Guarrotxena and Udanta Singh, with Guarrotxena nearly scoring after a well-executed counterattack, only to be denied by Kaith.
Molina's final attempt to salvage a point involved substituting Suhail Bhat for Lalengmawia Ralte as the visitors sought a late equalizer. Despite creating several opportunities, they were unable to finish, marking their second defeat of the season.
In their upcoming fixtures, Mohun Bagan Super Giant will clash with Punjab FC on December 26, while FC Goa will face Odisha FC on January 4.
