PANAJI
FC Goa launched their final round campaign in the AIFF U-17 Elite Youth League 2024–25 with a spirited performance, pulling off a dramatic 2-2 draw against AIFF FIFA Talent Academy in their opening Group A fixture.
Despite trailing 0-2 for most of the second half, the young Gaurs displayed immense grit and determination under the guidance of head coach Shane Temudo in the match played at Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati.
After AIFF took the lead through Thokchom Diamond Singh in first-half stoppage time (45+3’) and doubled it with Rahan Ahmed’s strike in the 64th minute, FC Goa refused to back down.
As the match approached full-time, Freden Mendes gave FC Goa a lifeline with a clinical finish in the 90+1st minute. Just two minutes later, Josley Gomes completed the comeback with a last-gasp equaliser (90+3’), sending the FC Goa bench into jubilation.
Thokchom Diamond Singh was named Player of the Match for his individual brilliance.
Elsewhere in Group A, Punjab FC surged to the top of the standings with a commanding 5-0 win over Sudeva Delhi FC.
After Matchday 1, Punjab FC lead the group with 3 points. FC Goa and AIFF FIFA Talent Academy follow with 1 point each, ahead of bottom-placed Sudeva Delhi FC.
