FC Goa secured a 3-1 victory over Mumbai City FC at the Mumbai Football Arena in the Indian Super League 2024-25 on Wednesday. This win ended their 13-match winless streak against the Islanders in the league. As a result, FC Goa strengthened their position in second place with 39 points from 20 games.

Iker Guarrotxena’s Early Impact

The match started with Iker Guarrotxena making his mark early. In the 24th minute, Guarrotxena dribbled past Mumbai’s defense and fired a shot into the bottom right corner from just outside the box, giving FC Goa a 1-0 lead.

Double the Lead Before Half-Time

Five minutes later, Guarrotxena had another chance to score but missed a header from a cross by Borja Herrera. However, just before halftime, he doubled FC Goa's lead in the 41st minute. Udanta Singh made a brilliant run down the right, pulling defenders away, and delivered a perfect cross into the box. Guarrotxena positioned himself well and finished with a precise shot into the bottom right corner.

Mumbai’s Attempts to Respond

Mumbai City FC tried to get back into the game. In the 57th minute, Jorge Ortiz passed to Vikram, but his shot was saved by FC Goa goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari. A few minutes later, Ortiz crossed the ball for Jon Toral, but Tiwari was there to make another save. Then, Toral set up Lallianzuala Chhangte, but Chhangte’s shot went high and wide.

Borja Herrera Seals the Victory

In the 64th minute, Borja Herrera gave FC Goa a more comfortable lead with a well-timed goal. He capitalized on a weak clearance from Mehtab Singh and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom right corner, making it 3-0 for FC Goa.

Late Penalty for Mumbai City FC

Late in the match, FC Goa made several substitutions to hold on to their lead. However, in the dying moments, Mumbai City FC earned a penalty after Tiwari fouled a player in the box. Chhangte stepped up and converted the spot-kick, scoring Mumbai’s only goal of the match. Despite this, FC Goa won 3-1.

Key Performer

Iker Guarrotxena was the standout player. He completed 19 out of 27 passes, created two goal-scoring opportunities, and scored twice.

What’s Next?

FC Goa will next play Kerala Blasters FC on February 22. Meanwhile, Mumbai City FC will face Hyderabad FC on February 19.