PANAJI
Goa produced their most complete performance in the Group Round to defeat Karnataka 2-0 in their final Group H fixture, finishing the group stage with four points, to end their campaign on a positive note.
The opening half was defined by Karnataka’s territorial dominance. They controlled possession for long stretches and pushed play into Goa’s half, testing Goa’s defensive organisation. While Goa struggled to generate attacking momentum in the first half, they remained compact and disciplined, limiting Karnataka to a handful of chances without allowing a clear breakthrough.
The match turned in stoppage time of the first half. Against the run of play, Goa struck decisively in the 45+2 minute , where Arnold Oliveira initiated the attack before finding Stendly Fernandes, who combined intelligently with Vellington Fernandes. With Karnataka’s backline caught high, Vellington returned the ball into space for Stendly, who finished confidently to give Goa a crucial 1-0 lead just before the interval.
That goal shifted the balance. Goa emerged with greater belief after the restart and nearly doubled the advantage in the 47th minute, only for Karnataka goalkeeper Sujay S to intervene with a sharp save.
Karnataka pushed for a response, but Goa’s backline held firm, with goalkeeper Sanij Bugde producing a vital save in the 68th minute to deny a header that could have altered the course of the game.
Goa’s second goal arrived a minute later and effectively sealed the contest. A long ball forward was chased down by Joshua D’Silva, who showed determination and strength to force his way through despite pressure from two defenders. His effort found the net, extending Goa’s lead to 2-0.
Goa managed the closing stages, just when Ariston Costa was cautioned following a robust challenge, while late in stoppage time, Salgeo Dias nearly added a third after weaving past few defenders, only to be denied by another save from Sujay S.
The final whistle confirmed a deserved 2-0 victory, reflecting Goa’s improved cohesion and defensive solidity in key moments. Goa concluded Group H with four points, finishing behind Services on nine, with Karnataka on three and Lakshadweep on one.
