SCOREBOX
FC Goa 1 (Chiki 75') drew with Chennaiyin FC 1 (Irfan Yadwad 63')
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PANAJI
FC Goa came from behind to hold Chennaiyin FC to a 1-1 draw in their opening match of the Indian Super League 2026-27 season at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda on Saturday.
Irfan Yadwad put Chennaiyin ahead in the 64th minute before Chiki headed home the equaliser for FC Goa in the 75th minute to earn the hosts a point in their season opener.
Both teams attempted to build from the back and create openings in the first half, but neither managed to break the deadlock. Chennaiyin took the lead when Irfan struck a right-footed effort into the far corner in the 64th minute.
The visitors looked to extend their advantage, with Ramon Taque testing the Goa defence with a powerful attempt towards the bottom-left corner from a tight angle. FC Goa stepped up the pressure and came close to equalising in the 70th minute when Ramon's curling effort from long range struck the post. Udanta Singh also threatened, with his attempt hitting the crossbar as the hosts searched for a breakthrough.
Goa drew level in the 75th minute after winning a free kick following a foul on Udanta in the attacking half. Chiki met the delivery with a well-directed header into the bottom-right corner.
The hosts continued to push for a winner, with Chiki attempting another effort from inside the box in the 79th minute. Chennaiyin also had a chance to regain the lead when Ramon rose to meet a cross from the left but headed over the crossbar with the goalkeeper off his line.
Both sides pressed for a late winner, but neither could find a decisive goal as the points were shared.
