FC Goa defeated Punjab FC 2-1 in the Kalinga Super Cup 2025 quarter-final at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Saturday.

Goa Hold Strong in First Half

At the start, both teams battled hard for control. However, neither side managed to score. Meanwhile, Goa goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari made a fantastic diving save to deny Nikhil Prabhu’s shot. As a result, the teams went into halftime level.

Punjab FC Break the Deadlock

Shortly after the break, Punjab FC struck first. Muhammad Suhail’s shot smashed against the post. However, the ball fell kindly for Ezequiel Pulga Vidal. His strike deflected off Goa captain Odei Onaindia and rolled into the net, leaving Tiwari helpless.

Marquez Makes Bold Changes

Nevertheless, FC Goa refused to give up. Head coach Manolo Marquez made important substitutions. He brought in Sahil Tavora for Ayush Chhetri to steady the midfield. Later, he boldly replaced star defender Sandesh Jhingan with young striker Alan Saji to chase the game.

Herrera Brings Goa Back

Eventually, Goa’s pressure paid off. In the 88th minute, substitute Brison Fernandes whipped a dangerous ball into the box. Punjab FC failed to clear it properly. Borja Herrera seized the chance. He controlled the loose ball and smashed it past Muheet Khan at the near post to make it 1-1.

Yasir Completes the Comeback

With the match heading toward penalties, FC Goa pushed harder. In stoppage time, Dejan Drazic floated a cross from the left. Although Pramveer Singh tried to clear it, the ball only reached the edge of the box. Mohammad Yasir, who had earlier replaced Carl McHugh, fired a shot that "took a crucial deflection off Filip Mrzljak, wrong-footing the goalkeeper and nestling into the corner of the net."

Gaurs March into Semifinals

Thus, FC Goa completed a dramatic comeback. They will now face Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Kalinga Super Cup semifinals next Wednesday.