In a thrilling encounter at the Fatorda Stadium, FC Goa faced off against Bengaluru FC in the second leg of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 semi-final on April 6, 2025. The stakes were high as Goa needed to overcome a 2-0 deficit from the first leg, where Bengaluru had secured a significant advantage thanks to a Sandesh Jhingan own goal and a strike from Edgar Mendez.
As the match kicked off at 7:30 PM Indian Standard Time (IST), the atmosphere was electric, with fans hoping for a dramatic turnaround. FC Goa, under head coach Manolo Marquez, aimed to capitalize on their home advantage, knowing that a win was essential to keep their final hopes alive. The Gaurs had finished second in the league stages with 48 points, showcasing their potential throughout the season.
Right from the start, Goa displayed a determined approach, pushing forward to create opportunities. Their efforts were evident as they dominated possession early in the match, with multiple attacks testing Bengaluru's defense. However, the Blues, coached by Gerard Zaragoza, were not to be underestimated. They came into the match with confidence, having won their last two playoff games without conceding a goal.
In the first half, FC Goa's best chance came when Udanta Singh had a shot saved by Bengaluru's goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, who was in fine form. The first half ended goalless, but Bengaluru still held the aggregate lead of 2-0, leaving Goa with only 45 minutes to turn the tie around.
After the break, the Gaurs continued to apply pressure, and their persistence paid off in the 49th minute when Borja scored from a free kick, narrowing the aggregate score to 2-1. This goal ignited the home crowd and gave FC Goa the momentum they desperately needed.
Despite the setback, Bengaluru remained composed. Their defense, led by Rahul Bheke, who had the most clearances in the league, worked tirelessly to thwart Goa's advances. Bheke's defensive prowess was on full display as he made crucial interventions to keep his team in the game.
As the match progressed, FC Goa continued to attack, creating several chances that had fans on the edge of their seats. In the 65th minute, a potential equalizer was disallowed for offside, much to the dismay of the home supporters. The tension in the stadium was palpable as the Gaurs pushed for another goal to level the aggregate score.
In the 70th minute, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu made back-to-back saves that kept Bengaluru in the lead, denying FC Goa a crucial second goal. His performance was a testament to his skill and importance to the team, as he recorded his eighth clean sheet of the season, second only to Vishal Kaith.
With time running out, FC Goa intensified their efforts, launching a flurry of attacks. The Blues, however, remained resolute, countering effectively and looking to extend their lead. The match saw several bookings, including a yellow card for Bengaluru's Alberto Noguera, but the focus remained on the thrilling battle for a place in the final.
As the clock ticked down, FC Goa's hopes of overturning the deficit grew increasingly desperate. They had to find a way to score again, but Bengaluru's defense held firm, showcasing their experience and tactical discipline. The final whistle blew with the score at 1-0 in favor of FC Goa for the match, but 2-1 on aggregate for Bengaluru FC, confirming their place in the finals.
After the match, FC Goa's Manolo Marquez expressed pride in his team's performance despite the loss, stating, "The past and statistics are not important right now. We are confident that we can get into the finals." Meanwhile, Bengaluru's Gerard Zaragoza emphasized the importance of bravery and focus in their quest for the title.
With this victory, Bengaluru FC advanced to their fourth ISL final, where they will face either Mohun Bagan or Jamshedpur FC, who are set to clash in the other semi-final. The stage is set for an exciting conclusion to the ISL 2024-25 season, with fans eagerly anticipating the final showdown.
