Football

FC Goa's impressive run in the Indian Super League continued on Wednesday as they secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Punjab FC. This triumph marked their second consecutive win, propelling them to the top three in the league standings.The match began with Punjab FC taking an early lead through Asmir Sujik's strike in the 13th minute. However, FC Goa responded swiftly, with Armando Sadiku equalizing just nine minutes later. The first half ended with both teams level at 1-1.In the second half, FC Goa stepped up their intensity and pace. Their efforts paid off in the 49th minute when Iker Garrotxena scored the winning goal with a clinical left-footed strike. Despite Punjab FC's persistent attempts to level the score, FC Goa's defense held firm, securing the victory.This win was a testament to FC Goa's growing confidence and momentum. After breaking Bengaluru FC's unbeaten streak 3-0 in their previous match, they have now established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the league.Iker Garrotxena was the standout performer for FC Goa, scoring one goal and assisting another. His contributions were crucial in securing the three points. Armando Sadiku also played a vital role, scoring the equalizer and providing a constant threat to the Punjab FC defense.Punjab FC, on the other hand, will be disappointed with the result. Despite taking an early lead, they were unable to maintain their advantage and ultimately succumbed to FC Goa's pressure.With this victory, FC Goa moved to third place in the standings with 12 points from eight matches. Punjab FC, meanwhile, suffered their second defeat in six matches.

Bengaluru FC's unbeaten run in the 2024-25 Indian Super League came to an abrupt end as FC Goa inflicted a resounding 3-0 defeat on the Blues at the Fatorda Stadium on Saturday. Despite the setback, Bengaluru remains atop the standings with 16 points from seven matches, three points ahead of Mohun Bagan, which has played a game less.FC Goa, on the other hand, breathed a sigh of relief with its second win in seven contests. The victory was orchestrated by a trio of second-half strikes from Armando Sadiku, Brison Fernandes, and Dejan Drazic.Goa began the match as the aggressor, with Drazic's creativity on the wings causing problems for Bengaluru's defense. The hosts also threatened from set-pieces, but the Blues held firm to keep the tie goalless at the break.However, the pressure eventually told on Bengaluru, which was forced to reshuffle its defense after Aleksandar Jovanovic was unable to continue. In the 63rd minute, Sadiku's shot from Mohammad Yasir's low cross took a couple of deflections before trickling past goalkeeper Gurpreet Sandhu.Substitute Brison doubled Goa's advantage with a deft chip from outside the box after Gurpreet was robbed off the ball by Sadiku inside the Bengaluru penalty area. Drazic netted Goa's third in stoppage-time after latching onto Iker Guarrotxena's chip.The result marked Bengaluru's first defeat of the season and highlighted the depth and quality of FC Goa's squad. The Blues will look to bounce back in their next match, while Goa will aim to build on this momentum and climb up the standings.

Bengaluru FC, the reigning Indian Super League (ISL) champions, will face a struggling FC Goa in a crucial match at the Fatorda stadium on Saturday. BFC, currently atop the standings with 16 points, has been in impressive form, winning five matches and drawing one. Their defensive solidity has been a key factor, conceding just once in six games.In contrast, FC Goa has endured a disappointing start to the season, languishing in 10th place with only six points. Manolo Marquez's men have managed just one win in their three home games, leaving them desperate for a turnaround.BFC will be confident of extending Goa's misery, especially after their impressive 3-1 victory away at Kerala Blasters. "Last season, we were mid-table and fought against the top teams. This year we are on top and everyone wants to beat us. It feels good," said BFC coach Gerard Zaragoza ahead of the tie.For Goa, the BFC fixture presents a golden opportunity to kickstart a revival. The astute Marquez, despite being without the injured duo of Borja Herrera and Rowllin Borges, remains optimistic. "We are playing better than last season," said the Spaniard. "But we have not been consistent. It is a good moment to play BFC because we need to show that we can beat the strongest."The match promises to be an intriguing clash between two teams with contrasting fortunes. BFC will be looking to maintain their dominance at the top of the table, while Goa will be desperate to end their winless streak and climb up the standings.

Virat Kohli, the legendary Indian cricketer, has extended his sporting prowess beyond the cricket field by co-owning FC Goa, a prominent team in the Indian Super League (ISL). Kohli's passion for football has driven his involvement in the club, reflecting his desire to contribute to the growth of sports in India.FC Goa was one of the founding franchises of the ISL, established in 2014 to revolutionize Indian football. Kohli, a fervent football enthusiast, recognized the opportunity to support the development of the sport and became a co-owner of the Goa-based club. His involvement was not merely financial but stemmed from a genuine love for the game.Kohli has often shared his childhood memories of playing football, emphasizing its role in his fitness regimen. He has expressed that if not for cricket, he might have pursued football professionally. His association with FC Goa provided a platform to channel this passion into action, supporting a team in a region with a rich footballing heritage.Kohli's presence has significantly boosted the visibility of the ISL and FC Goa. His immense fan following in India and abroad has drawn attention to the league, contributing to its growth and popularity. As one of the most recognizable names in Indian sports, Kohli's involvement has added credibility and legitimacy to the ISL, which was still in its early stages when FC Goa was launched.While Kohli acknowledges that he is still learning the intricacies of football ownership, his influence extends beyond the financial aspect. He actively supports youth development programs, grassroots initiatives, and advocates for creating a sports culture in India. FC Goa, under Kohli and the other owners, has become one of the most competitive teams in the league, known for its attacking style and nurturing local talent.For Kohli, owning a football team aligns with his broader vision of promoting sports in India. He believes that football has immense potential for growth, and his involvement with FC Goa is a step towards building a culture where football is as popular as cricket. His journey with FC Goa highlights his commitment to contributing to the rise of football in India while balancing his own legendary cricket career.

Shillong Lajong FC's impressive run in the 133rd Durand Cup continued as they held FC Goa to a 1-1 draw in their final Group F match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong. The result secured a quarterfinal berth for Shillong Lajong, who topped the group with a better goal difference.Marcos Rudwere Silva gave Shillong Lajong the lead in the 30th minute, but Devendra Murgaonkar equalized for FC Goa just two minutes later. The match took a dramatic turn in the 81st minute when FC Goa goalkeeper Hritik Tiwari was sent off with a straight red card, leaving his team with 10 men.Despite the numerical advantage, Shillong Lajong was unable to capitalize and extend their lead. Both teams finished the group stage with seven points, but Shillong Lajong's superior goal difference earned them the top spot.Shillong Lajong joined Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Bengaluru FC, Kerala Blasters FC, Indian Army FT, and NorthEast United FC in the quarterfinals. Punjab FC and Emami East Bengal also booked their places in the last-eight stage as the two best second-placed sides.FC Goa, despite having seven points, was edged out by East Bengal, which had a goal difference of plus four compared to the former's plus two.The quarterfinal fixtures have been tentatively released by the organizers. East Bengal will face Shillong Lajong in Shillong on August 21, while NorthEast United FC will take on Indian Army FT in Kokrajhar. The remaining two quarterfinals will be played on August 23, with Mohun Bagan SG meeting Punjab FC in Jamshedpur and Bengaluru FC facing Kerala Blasters FC in Kolkata.

Manolo Marquez, the newly appointed coach of the Indian men's football team, faces a daunting task. With the departure of Igor Stimac and the retirement of Sunil Chhetri, Marquez inherits a team in transition. However, the Spaniard is undeterred, vowing to improve the team's mentality and performance.Marquez, who also coaches ISL club FC Goa, acknowledges the potential conflict of interest but believes in professionalism. He draws inspiration from renowned coaches like Guus Hiddink and Rinus Michels, who successfully managed both club and country.Marquez's appointment stems from his impressive work in the ISL. After initially dismissing the possibility of coaching in India, he has come to appreciate the country's footballing potential. He believes that Indian players have improved but need to develop a stronger mentality."They are improving, but it is the Indian mentality," Marquez observed. "We need to improve in this aspect. They have to be stronger mentally. In football, technique, tactics, physical condition are important, but if the head doesn't work, you can do nothing."Marquez's immediate goal is to enhance the individual and collective abilities of Indian players. He recognizes the importance of overseas experience and encourages players to seek opportunities abroad."The level of Indian players is better than what it was five years ago. But it can be better and improve faster," said Marquez. "My feeling is that Indian players are very comfortable in ISL. You will grow when you play abroad."Marquez understands the challenges ahead but remains optimistic. He believes that with the right attitude and collective effort, the Indian team can achieve positive results.

Spaniard Manolo Marquez, currently the head coach of Indian Super League (ISL) side FC Goa, has been appointed as the new head coach of the Indian men's football team. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) executive committee made the announcement on July 20, replacing Igor Stimac, who was sacked on June 17 after India failed to qualify for the third round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.Marquez, 55, has a wealth of experience in Indian football, having led FC Goa to the ISL League Winners' Shield in 2021 and the Super Cup in 2019. He is known for his attacking style of play and his ability to develop young players."The Committee, in the first order of the day, deliberated on the appointment of the new head coach for the Senior Men's National Team, and selected Manolo Marquez for the job, effective immediately," the AIFF said in a statement."During the 2024-25 season, Mr. Marquez will continue his role as the head coach of first team at FC Goa, handling both responsibilities concurrently before assuming the national coaching role on a full-time basis."The tenure of Marquez was not disclosed by the AIFF.Marquez's appointment has been met with mixed reactions. Some fans and pundits believe that he is the right man for the job, given his experience and success in Indian football. Others, however, are concerned about his ability to manage the national team while also being in charge of FC Goa.Despite these concerns, Marquez is confident that he can succeed in both roles. "I am very happy and proud to be appointed as the head coach of the Indian national team," he said. "I know that it is a big responsibility, but I am confident that I can help the team achieve success."Marquez's first task will be to prepare the team for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, which will be held in June 2023. India will be looking to qualify for the tournament for the first time since 2019.

Mumbai City FC secured their place in the Indian Super League (ISL) final with a dominant 2-0 victory over FC Goa in the semi-final second leg at the Mumbai Football Arena. The aggregate score of 5-2 sealed their triumph.After a thrilling 3-2 first-leg win at the Fatorda Stadium, Mumbai City FC maintained their momentum with goals from Jorge Pereyra Diaz and Lallianzuala Chhangte. The victory marks their second consecutive appearance in the ISL final, having won the title in 2021.Mumbai City FC controlled the tempo of the match from the outset, despite a spirited start from FC Goa. Chhangte, who emerged as the star of the night, created the first significant chance but was denied by a timely block. The hosts continued to press, hitting the woodwork twice through Tiri and Chhangte.The second half saw Mumbai City FC maintain their dominance, and their efforts were rewarded in the 69th minute. Diaz pounced on a corner kick and tapped the ball into the net from close range. Chhangte sealed the victory in the 83rd minute with a brilliant solo run from his own half.Mumbai City FC will now face Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the final on Saturday. The Kolkata-based club advanced to the final after edging out Odisha FC 3-2 on aggregate in the other semi-final.

In a dramatic turn of events, Mumbai City FC stunned FC Goa with a remarkable 3-2 victory in the first leg of the Indian Super League (ISL) semi-final on Wednesday. The match, played in the humid conditions of Goa, saw Mumbai City trailing for most of the game before unleashing a late onslaught in injury time.FC Goa took the lead in the 16th minute through Boris Thangjam, who capitalized on a defensive error by Mehtab Singh. The home team continued to dominate possession and stifled Mumbai City's attacking options. In the 56th minute, Brandon Fernandes extended Goa's lead with a stunning long-range strike, seemingly putting the game beyond Mumbai City's reach.However, Mumbai City refused to give up. In the 90th minute, Lallianzuala Chhangte reduced the deficit with a well-timed run and finish, assisted by Jayesh Rane. Just a minute later, Vikram Partap Singh equalized for Mumbai City, taking advantage of a spilled save by FC Goa goalkeeper Dheeraj Moirangthem.As the game entered stoppage time, Mumbai City continued to press for the winner. In the sixth minute of added time, Chhangte completed his brace, slipping between two FC Goa defenders to score the decisive goal, again assisted by Rane.The victory was a testament to Mumbai City's resilience and the impact of substitute Rane, who made a significant contribution after coming on in the 64th minute. FC Goa coach Manolo Marquez expressed his disappointment with his team's late collapse, stating, "This is why we didn't win the league. If you don't show character, you don't win."Chhangte's performance was particularly impressive, as he now has 15 goal contributions (9 goals and 6 assists) this season, the most among Indians and sixth overall. His late goals have proven crucial for Mumbai City in their quest for the ISL title.