It was a second successive day of nail-biting games in the ninth edition of the Indian Super League, as FC Goa pulled off a thrilling last-minute victory over SC East Bengal.
The 2019/20 runners-up notched up an important victory in their first game of the season to get their campaign up and running. Meanwhile, titans East Bengal’s defeat set them back further after a 3-1 loss to three-time finalists Kerala Blasters in the season opener.
The two sides faced off against each other at the Vivekananda Sports Stadium in Kolkata. FC Goa took the lead early in the game as Indian left-winger Brandon Fernandes put his side in front with a messy-yet-successful finish from a weighted Alvaro Vazquez ball.
The game was evenly fought between the two sides as both teams got forward. However, the East Bengal attack was time and again thwarted by central midfielder Edu Bedia, who had a fantastic game. His defensive awareness was unmatched, completing 15 successful defensive actions in the game. The Spaniard’s influence on the game was second to none, as the East Goa attackers were unable to create a clear goalscoring opportunity.
East Bengal were finally able to equalise in the second half after goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh conceded a penalty. Striker Cleiton Silva slotted home from 12 yards as East Bengal breathed a sigh of relief. The Bengal side was lucky not to concede further as the Goans missed a big chance that should have been put away.
Notwithstanding, Goa were able to pull off a stunning victory with seconds left on the clock as man of the match Bedia scored an extraordinary free kick. The Spaniard’s marvellous effort ensured that Goa walked away with three points.
