FC Goa Secures Spot in Kalinga Super Cup Quarterfinals with Dominant Win
FC Goa Triumphs Over Gokulam Kerala FC
New Delhi [India], April 22: FC Goa achieved a decisive 3-0 victory against Gokulam Kerala FC at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Monday, propelling them into the quarterfinals of the Kalinga Super Cup 2025, according to the official ISL website.
The standout performer for the Gaurs was Spanish midfielder Iker Guarrotxena, who netted a stunning hat-trick.
The first goal was scored in the 22nd minute, initiated by an impressive run from Dejan Drazic, who advanced from the halfway line before being fouled inside the Gokulam penalty area.
Guarrotxena confidently converted the penalty, striking the ball straight down the middle to put his team ahead.
Just thirteen minutes later, the Gaurs extended their lead. Aakash Sangwan made a dynamic overlapping run down the left, received the ball, and delivered a precise cross into the box. Guarrotxena expertly volleyed it past the diving goalkeeper.
He completed his hat-trick in the 71st minute, receiving a sharp low cross from Jay Gupta on the right side of the box. The winger selflessly passed it to Guarrotxena, who finished from close range. This goal marked his 23rd in 45 appearances for FC Goa, making him the club's third-highest goalscorer.
On the defensive end, goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari, along with captain Odei Onaindia and Sandesh Jhingan, remained vigilant. Tiwari made several crucial saves in the closing minutes, achieving his eighth clean sheet of the season.
This victory secures FC Goa's place in the Kalinga Super Cup quarter-finals, where they will face Punjab FC on Sunday.