PANAJI
In a stunning turn of events, Mumbai City FC pulled off a remarkable comeback to defeat FC Goa in the Indian Super League (ISL) semi-final first leg at the Fatorda Stadium. The Islanders overturned a 2-0 deficit to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory, ending FC Goa's unbeaten run in the process.
The match began with Yasir setting up Boris for an early lead for Mumbai City FC. Despite FC Goa dominating for the most part, with Boris and Brandon Fernandes scoring, Mumbai City FC stunned everyone with their last-minute heroics.
Lallianzuala Chhangte played a pivotal role in Mumbai's comeback, scoring two crucial goals in the dying moments of the game. Jayesh Rane provided the assist for Chhangte's first goal, while Vikram Partap Singh equalised before Chhangte secured the victory with a sublime finish.
The defeat was a bitter pill to swallow for FC Goa and their coach, Manolo Marquez, who expressed disappointment at conceding three goals in the final minutes of the game. Marquez emphasized the need for his team to quickly recover for the second leg, scheduled to be held at the Mumbai Football Arena.
Despite the loss, FC Goa had several positives to take from the match. They dominated possession and created numerous chances, with six shots on target. However, they were unable to convert their opportunities, ultimately paying the price for their inability to see off the game.
On the defensive end, FC Goa's backline performed admirably until the late collapse in injury time. Seriton Fernandes and Odei Onaindia stood out with their composed performances, but Mumbai's relentless attack proved too much to handle in the end.
Mumbai City FC's depth was on display as they secured the win despite missing key players like Alberto Noguera and Jorge Pereyra Diaz. Coach Petr Kratky's decision to field a relatively inexperienced lineup paid off, with the team showcasing resilience and determination until the final whistle.
The Match synopsis: The game commenced with Yasir's assist setting up Boris for an early lead for Mumbai City FC. Despite FC Goa dominating possession, with Boris and Brandon Fernandes finding the net, Mumbai City FC stunned everyone with their late resurgence.
The heroes of Mumbai's comeback: Lallianzuala Chhangte emerged as the protagonist in Mumbai's revival, scoring two vital goals in the closing stages of the match. Jayesh Rane contributed with an assist for Chhangte's first goal, while Vikram Partap Singh leveled the score before Chhangte's decisive strike.
FC Goa's disappointment: The defeat was a bitter pill for FC Goa and coach Manolo Marquez, who lamented his team's concession of three late goals. Marquez stressed the importance of swift recovery for the upcoming second leg.
Positives amidst defeat: Despite the loss, FC Goa showcased promising signs, dominating possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities. However, their failure to convert chances proved costly.
Defensive resilience and Mumbai's depth: FC Goa's defense, led by Seriton Fernandes and Odei Onaindia, showcased resilience until Mumbai's onslaught in injury time. Mumbai City FC's depth was evident as they secured victory without key players like Alberto Noguera and Jorge Pereyra Diaz.
Individual brilliance: Lallianzuala Chhangte stole the show with two crucial goals, displaying clinical finishing and composure under pressure.
In terms of individual performances, Lallianzuala Chhangte emerged as the hero for Mumbai City FC, scoring two crucial goals. His clinical finishing and composure under pressure played a significant role in the team's comeback victory.
Statistical analysis of the game revealed several key insights. Noah Sadaoui led the charts for successful dribbles, while Thaer Krouma attempted the most shots for FC Goa. Both goalkeepers, Dheeraj Singh and Phurba Lachenpa, made important saves to keep their teams in the game.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Most successful dribbles: Noah Sadaoui led with 3 successful dribbles, followed by Lallianzuala Chhangte with 2 and Jayesh Rane with 1
Yellow cards: Noah Sadaoui and Jayesh Rane each received a yellow card during the match
Most shots attempted: Thaer Krouma attempted the most shots with 4, followed by Lallianzuala Chhangte and Brandon Fernandes with 2 each.
Saves by goalkeepers: Dheeraj Singh made 3 saves for FC Goa, while Phurba Lachenpa made 2 saves for Mumbai City FC
Records created: FC Goa's unbeaten run of eight games came to an end with this defeat.
Top three players: Lallianzuala Chhangte emerged as the top performer with 2 goals, followed by Vikram Partap Singh with 1 goal and Jayesh Rane with 2 assists
