PANAJI
FC Goa came from behind to secure a 1–1 draw against Inter Kashi in their opening fixture of the Indian Super League 2025 26 season at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Saturday evening.
The Gaurs began the contest on the front foot, controlling possession and looking to impose their rhythm early in front of the home crowd. However, despite their territorial dominance, it was the visitors who took the lead deep into first half stoppage time. In the 45+2nd minute, Prasanth Karuthadathkuni capitalised on an opportunity to give Inter Kashi a 1–0 advantage heading into the interval.
FC Goa returned after the break with increased urgency, pushing higher up the pitch and committing numbers forward in search of an equaliser. Their persistence was rewarded in the 80th minute when the game saw a decisive turning point.
Inter Kashi goalkeeper Lluis Tarres was shown a red card after bringing down Nemil inside the penalty area, reducing the visitors to ten men and awarding FC Goa a spot kick.Dejan Drazic stepped up and calmly converted from the penalty spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to bring the Gaurs level and lift the energy inside Fatorda.
In an effort to capitalize on the momentum, the Gaurs turned to their bench. The introduction of substitutes Abdul Rabeeh, Raynier Fernandes, Sahil Tavora, and Ishan Pandita added some fire to the game, injecting fresh pace and intensity into the attack.Despite the numerical advantage and the spark provided by the changes, it was not enough to push for the winner. Inter Kashi defended resolutely in the final moments to ensure the points were shared at full time.
Coach's Reaction Following the match, the FC Goa Head Coach offered an honest assessment of the team's mixed performance: "First half I was very disappointed with our team. In the second half, we were better, but in the end, it was one final action of Nemil that helped us to equalize with the penalty."
The result sees the Gaurs begin their ISL campaign with a hard earned comeback, showing resilience and character as they look to build momentum in the early stages of the season.
