FC Goa Secures Spot in AIFF Super Cup Final with Victory Over Mumbai City FC
FC Goa Advances to AIFF Super Cup Final
Fatorda (Goa) [India], December 5: FC Goa has reached the AIFF Super Cup final for the third time after defeating Mumbai City FC 2-1 in a thrilling semi-final match held at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, Goa, on Thursday, according to the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
The reigning champions faced significant challenges but managed to secure their victory with two quick goals in the first half from Brison Fernandes (20') and David Timor (23'), setting the stage for a final clash against East Bengal.
Despite a spirited comeback from Mumbai City FC, who scored through Brandon Fernandes, they faced their third consecutive semi-final exit in this tournament.
The match was filled with drama even before it began, as FC Goa's captain Iker Guarrotxena was sent off due to a pre-match incident in the tunnel, leading to Javier Siverio stepping in as a last-minute replacement. Nevertheless, Goa maintained their composure despite the loss of their captain.
Just 20 minutes into the game, FC Goa took the lead thanks to a defensive error from Mumbai City's Rubio. A cross from the left was poorly handled, allowing Brison Fernandes to seize the opportunity and unleash a powerful left-footed shot past goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa, igniting celebrations in Fatorda.
Only three minutes later, FC Goa extended their lead. David Timor, who had been quiet until then, unleashed a fierce shot from outside the box. Although it was directed at Lachenpa, the goalkeeper misjudged the effort, fumbling it and watching helplessly as it sailed over him into the net. Goa now led 2-0, filled with confidence while Mumbai appeared rattled.
Following the second goal, Goa controlled the game, creating several chances. Just before halftime, Timor nearly scored again with a spectacular free-kick, forcing Lachenpa into a crucial save. The goalkeeper further redeemed himself by denying Borja Herrera Gonzalez on the rebound.
Despite Goa's dominance, Mumbai posed a threat, with Jorge Pereyra Diaz coming close when his shot hit the crossbar, reminding everyone that the match was far from over.
Emerging from halftime, Mumbai City displayed renewed vigor. In the 52nd minute, they were awarded a penalty when Pereyra Diaz was fouled by FC Goa's goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari. Lallianzuala Chhangte took the penalty but missed, shooting high over the bar, a moment that visibly shook Mumbai and boosted Goa's morale.
However, Mumbai persisted and reduced the deficit in the 59th minute. Pereyra Diaz set up Brandon Fernandes, who, despite losing his balance, managed to slot the ball into the bottom corner, reigniting the match's intensity.
In the final half-hour, Mumbai City pressed forward relentlessly. Chhangte tested Tiwari with a long-range shot that was parried, and he missed another chance on the rebound. Both Pereyra Diaz and Jorge Ortiz created opportunities but found Tiwari in exceptional form. Each save strengthened Goa's defense while increasing the pressure on Mumbai.
As the clock wound down, Mumbai City pushed forward desperately, but Goa's organized defense held strong, securing their place in the final on Sunday. However, the Gaurs will be without the suspended Guarrotxena for the upcoming match.