FC Goa kicked off their Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 campaign with a hard-fought 3-2 win against East Bengal at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium on Friday. The highlight of the match was Borja Herrera’s brilliant hattrick, which not only secured FC Goa’s first victory but also marked the first hattrick of the new season.
The visitors started the game with a strong attacking intent, creating several chances through players like Dejan Drazic, Borja Herrera, and Boris Singh. Their efforts bore fruit in the 13th minute when East Bengal goalkeeper Debjit Majumder’s clearance landed in Herrera’s path, allowing the Spaniard to slot home the opening goal.
FC Goa continued their offensive momentum, and in the 20th minute, they doubled their lead. Boris Singh dispossessed Hijazi Maher on the right flank and delivered a precise pass to Herrera, who fired in his second goal of the night.
Despite trailing by two goals, East Bengal responded well. They were handed a lifeline in the 29th minute when Nim Dorjee fouled Madih Talal in the box, resulting in a penalty. Talal confidently converted the spot-kick, pulling a goal back for East Bengal.
The second half began with East Bengal pressing for an equalizer, but it was FC Goa who came close to extending their lead when Rowllin Borges and Dejan Drazic combined for a chance, though Borges’ effort went wide. Another long-range strike from Drazic also missed the target.
In the 71st minute, Herrera completed his hattrick. Udanta Singh won possession and set up the Spanish midfielder, who calmly finished past the goalkeeper to restore FC Goa’s two-goal cushion.
The match became tense in the 81st minute when Carl McHugh was sent off after receiving his second yellow card, leaving Goa with 10 men. East Bengal capitalized on the numerical advantage, with David Lalhlansanga scoring in the 85th minute after a rebound from a long-range shot by Anwar Ali.
Despite East Bengal’s late push for an equalizer, FC Goa’s defense held firm, securing a vital three points to open their season.
Star of the Match: Borja Herrera (FC Goa)
Borja Herrera’s standout performance was the key to FC Goa’s victory. His hattrick not only ensured the win but also made him the ninth player in the club’s history to score a hattrick. Additionally, Herrera contributed with two chances created, seven crosses, and a crucial defensive interception.
Upcoming Fixtures:
East Bengal FC will look to secure their first win of the season when they face Jamshedpur FC on October 5. FC Goa, on the other hand, will host NorthEast United FC at home on October 4.
Final Scoreline:
FC Goa (Borja Herera 13’, 20’, 71’) 3 – 2 East Bengal FC (Madih Talal 29’, David Lalhlansanga 85’)
