Indian Super League 2024-25: Dominant FC Goa Outplays Chennaiyin FC to Secure Crucial 2-0 Win

FC Goa secured a commanding 2-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC in the Indian Super League 2024-25 season. The match took place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa on Saturday. As a result, the Gaurs climbed to second place in the table with 33 points. Significantly, they reduced the gap to league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant to just four points.

Guarrotxena Opens the Scoring

To kick off the match, FC Goa struck early through Iker Guarrotxena in the 11th minute. After a corner, Boris Singh delivered a curling cross from the right flank. Chennaiyin FC goalkeeper Mohammed Nawaz mishandled the ball, creating an opportunity for Brison Fernandes. Although Fernandes’ shot struck the post, Guarrotxena reacted swiftly, smashing the rebound into the net to give FC Goa the lead.

Nawaz Tries to Recover

Shortly after, Nawaz partially redeemed himself in the 17th minute. Aakash Sangwan burst into the box and attempted a powerful shot from a tight angle. However, Nawaz made an impressive diving save, keeping his team in contention.

Nevertheless, Sangwan found success in the 26th minute with a stunning goal. The move began with Guarrotxena, who set the play in motion with a smart pass to Carl McHugh. McHugh then lofted the ball over the defense to Sangwan. Calmly, Sangwan controlled the ball and slotted it into the bottom left corner, beating Nawaz at his near post.

Goa Dominates After Doubling the Lead

From this point onward, FC Goa maintained their dominance. Furthermore, Guarrotxena came close to adding a third goal in the 31st minute. In a moment of brilliance, he unleashed a powerful strike from distance, forcing Nawaz into another crucial save.

Meanwhile, Chennaiyin FC struggled to respond effectively. Their best chance came in the 69th minute when Connor Shields sent a precise cross to Wilmar Jordan Gil. Gil passed the ball to Farukh Choudhary, who, despite having space, sent his shot well over the bar, squandering a clear opportunity.

Late Substitutions and Efforts

In a last-ditch effort, Chennaiyin FC head coach Owen Coyle introduced Laldinliana Renthlei and Daniel Chima Chukwu in the 82nd minute. However, these changes did little to alter the game. Chima managed to score in the 85th minute, but the goal was ruled offside.

As the match neared its conclusion, Sangwan continued to press Chennaiyin’s defense. In the final minutes, he forced Nawaz into another save with a well-placed shot after a pass from Borja Herrera. Despite these efforts, FC Goa’s defense held firm, ensuring they secured all three points.

Finally, FC Goa delivered a stellar performance with both their attack and defense in perfect sync. Transitioning seamlessly between plays, they kept Chennaiyin FC on the back foot. Guarrotxena and Sangwan stood out with their contributions, while Chennaiyin FC missed key opportunities. With this win, the Gaurs further solidified their status as title contenders.