FC Goa secured a crucial 2-1 victory against Odisha FC in the Indian Super League 2024-25 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa. As a result, they moved up to second place, overtaking Jamshedpur FC. Now, the Gaurs have 36 points, two more than Jamshedpur’s 34.

From the start, FC Goa looked dominant. They registered six shots on target, whereas Odisha FC managed only two. Additionally, they made 15 interceptions compared to Odisha FC’s seven, proving their defensive strength.

Brison Fernandes Opens the Scoring

In the 28th minute, Odisha FC nearly took the lead. Ahmed Jahouh, playing his 150th ISL match, delivered a stunning free-kick from the left. His powerful shot caught FC Goa’s defense off guard and struck the crossbar.

However, FC Goa quickly turned the momentum in their favor. Carl McHugh played a precise pass to Borja Herrera inside the box on the left. Without hesitation, Herrera controlled the ball and squared it for Brison Fernandes in the center. Brison reacted swiftly and drilled the ball into the bottom right corner in the 29th minute, giving FC Goa the lead.

Hrithik Tiwari Saves a Penalty

Just nine minutes later, Odisha FC had a golden opportunity to equalize. Diego Mauricio won a penalty after Aakash Sangwan fouled him inside the box. Consequently, Sangwan received a yellow card.

Mauricio took his time before striking the ball toward the right side of the goal. However, FC Goa’s goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari made an outstanding full-stretch dive to deny him. His quick reflexes kept FC Goa ahead.

FC Goa Doubles the Lead

As the second half began, FC Goa continued to press forward. In the 50th minute, Iker Guarrotxena won a free-kick from distance. Borja Herrera sent a long ball deep into the box, aiming for Sandesh Jhingan. Odisha FC’s Mourtada Fall attempted a clearance, but unfortunately, the ball landed at Brison’s feet.

Wasting no time, Brison unleashed a powerful shot. The ball deflected off Lalthathanga Khawlhring and ended up in the net, resulting in an own goal for Odisha FC.

Rahul KP Pulls One Back

Despite being two goals down, Odisha FC refused to back down. In the 54th minute, they capitalized on a moment of disorganization in FC Goa’s midfield. Hugo Boumous spotted an opening and delivered a brilliant through ball to Rahul KP on the right.

Without hesitation, Rahul struck the ball into the bottom left corner. This goal reignited Odisha FC’s hopes of a comeback.

Ahmed Jahouh Sees Red

For a while, Odisha FC built momentum and put pressure on FC Goa’s defense. However, their efforts suffered a major setback in the 73rd minute. While trying to stop an FC Goa attack, Ahmed Jahouh handled the ball. The referee immediately issued him a second yellow card, leading to his dismissal.

With only 10 men, Odisha FC struggled to create meaningful chances. Meanwhile, FC Goa remained compact and held their defensive shape. Ultimately, they secured their 10th victory of the season.

Brison Fernandes Shines

Brison Fernandes played a crucial role in FC Goa’s success. He completed 27 of his 32 passes, made one interception, created three goal-scoring opportunities, and netted a goal.