Al-Zawraa claimed a 2-0 win over FC Goa after a closely contested match, with goals coming at crucial moments to seal the result. The visitors began the game aggressively, almost scoring in the fifth minute when Qasim Majid’s shot rattled the woodwork. FC Goa absorbed the early pressure before gradually settling into their rhythm.
The Gaurs had their first real opening in the eighth minute. Dejan Drazic delivered a perfect cross from the left flank to Javier Siverio inside the box, but the Spanish striker’s header went narrowly wide.
Goa Build Momentum
Manolo Marquez’s side continued to push forward, attacking mainly through the flanks. Full-backs linked up well with wingers, creating several promising moves. In the 31st minute, Boris Singh made an impressive run down the right and set up Borja Herrera in space. However, Herrera’s shot was blocked by a defender, denying Goa a breakthrough.
Al-Zawraa Break the Deadlock
Just before halftime, Al-Zawraa capitalized on a defensive lapse. Reziq Bani Hani struck on the rebound after Goa initially blocked his first attempt. This late goal put the visitors ahead, leaving the home side trailing 1-0 at the break.
Changes and Missed Opportunities
Marquez responded by substituting captain Iker Guarrotxena with Ayush Chhetri early in the second half to inject fresh energy into the attack.
Herrera continued to drive Goa forward, combining well with the forwards. Around the hour mark, he found Siverio inside the box with a sharp pass, but the striker’s acrobatic shot lacked power and failed to trouble the goalkeeper.
In the 67th minute, Udanta Singh made way for Brison Fernandes. Brison immediately made an impact, helping create a few chances along with Drazic and others. However, Goa’s finishing let them down in the final third, with crucial opportunities going to waste.
Late Drama Seals the Game
In stoppage time, Siverio had another chance to equalize, but once again his effort was off target.
Al-Zawraa then punished Goa’s missed chances. In the dying moments, Nizar Al-Rashdan beat goalkeeper Hritwik Tiwari at the near post to double the lead, confirming a 2-0 victory for the visitors.
Next Challenge for FC Goa
With this loss, FC Goa now face a must-win game. They will travel to Tajikistan to play Istiklol on October 1, where they will look to bounce back and keep their campaign alive.