FC Goa Dominates NorthEast United with 2-0 Victory in ISL Clash
FC Goa Secures Victory Against NorthEast United
Guwahati (Assam) [India], April 25: FC Goa maintained their impressive form in the Indian Super League 2025-26, achieving a 2-0 win over NorthEast United FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium on Friday.
A first-half goal from Dejan Drazic and a stoppage-time strike from substitute Mohammed Yasir ensured that the Gaurs took home all three points, moving them up to second place with 19 points from 10 matches.
NorthEast United FC, on the other hand, remains in 12th position with just seven points. Sandesh Jhingan, who delivered a stellar performance in defense, was awarded the Player of the Match.
The Highlanders started strong, with Redeem Tlang testing goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari early with a long-range shot that was easily saved. Shortly after, Brison Fernandes made a promising run down the left flank but couldn't find a teammate in the box. At the other end, Boris Singh came close on two occasions from distance, but both attempts went wide.
NorthEast United looked dangerous on counterattacks, with Jithin MS almost capitalizing on a well-placed through ball from Lalrinzuala, only to be thwarted by a composed save from Tiwari.
The breakthrough arrived in the 20th minute when Gaurs striker Muhammed Nemil executed a clever lofted pass to winger Dejan Drazic. The forward managed to fend off pressure from NorthEast fullback Mayakkannan before delivering a precise right-footed shot into the bottom corner, giving Goa a well-deserved lead.
However, Drazic's night ended prematurely due to injury, leading to his substitution by Abdul Rabeeh. The substitute made an immediate impact, collaborating effectively with Udanta Singh to create opportunities, including a close attempt from Nemil that just missed the target.
Goa continued to dominate, with Sandesh Jhingan effectively organizing the defense and making crucial interceptions to neutralize NorthEast's attacking efforts. The hosts managed a few late first-half advances, but Goa's defense held strong, taking a 1-0 lead into halftime.
The second half mirrored the first, with Goa controlling possession while NorthEast United sought openings. Early pressure from Goa nearly resulted in a second goal when Nemil's curling free-kick forced an excellent save from Highlanders keeper Gurmeet.
As the half progressed, NorthEast United displayed increased urgency, with Jithin MS and substitute Parthib Gogoi working well together in attack. However, their attempts were consistently thwarted by Goa's disciplined defense.
Despite several corners and attacking phases from the Highlanders, clear chances remained scarce. Goa continued to press, with Rabeeh and Ayush Chhetri testing the defense, but they couldn't extend their lead.
Just as NorthEast pushed for a late equalizer, FC Goa sealed the match in stoppage time. Substitute Huidrom Thoi Singh initiated the play before Aakash Sangwan sent in a hopeful cross from the left.
The ball found Mohammed Yasir on the right, who controlled it skillfully before curling a stunning left-footed shot into the top left corner off the post, confirming the victory.
FC Goa comfortably managed the remaining minutes to secure a convincing win.