FC Goa Triumphs Over Mohun Bagan Super Giant to Reach Kalinga Super Cup Final

FC Goa Secures Spot in Kalinga Super Cup Final

Bhubaneshwar (Odisha) [India], May 1: FC Goa dominated the match against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, winning 3-1 and advancing to the Kalinga Super Cup final on Wednesday. The teams were level at 1-1 at halftime.

Brison Fernandes (20'), Iker Guarrotxena (51' penalty), and Borja Herrera (58') scored for Goa, ensuring a solid victory for Manolo Marquez's team against Bastab Roy's youthful squad.

The Gaurs, who previously won the title in 2019, are set to face Jamshedpur FC in the final on Saturday, according to the official AIFF website.

Goa started the match with intense pressure, forcing Mohun Bagan's defense into a defensive stance. Their aggressive play and quick transitions left the Mariners' midfield disorganized.

In the 20th minute, Brison Fernandes took advantage of a set-piece to score the first goal. Following a cleverly executed corner by Borja Herrera, Brison managed to glance the ball into the far corner.

However, Mohun Bagan quickly equalized just two minutes later. Ashique Kuruniyan made a swift run along the byline, evading defender Boris Singh, and delivered a low cross that Suhail Bhat tapped in, mirroring his earlier goal against Kerala Blasters.

In the second half, Goa displayed renewed energy and determination. Just a minute in, Brison's powerful run and pass created a chance for Dejan Drazic, who unfortunately shot wide.

In the 50th minute, Dheeraj Singh's reckless challenge on an unmarked Drazic resulted in a penalty, which Iker Guarrotxena converted confidently.

Dheeraj's night worsened seven minutes later when he misjudged a corner from Herrera, allowing the ball to sail over him and into the net.

Despite being down, the Mariners had a chance to narrow the gap when Salahudheen broke free from a long ball, rounded the goalkeeper, but hesitated too long, allowing Goa's defense to block his shot.

From that point on, Goa managed the game effectively, nearly scoring a fourth goal in the closing minutes. They advanced to the final, aiming for their first Asian campaign since 2021 and a second Super Cup title.

Borja Herrera was awarded the Kalinga Player of the Match by Mr. Deepankar Mohapatra, IAS, Director of the Sports and Youth Services Department, Government of Odisha.