FC Goa defeated Punjab FC 1-0 in the Indian Super League 2024-25 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Thursday. As a result of this victory, FC Goa now has 45 points from 22 matches. They remain in second place, which could ensure a direct semi-final berth. Furthermore, they lead Bengaluru FC and Jamshedpur FC by eight points. However, Jamshedpur FC has three games in hand, which may allow them to close the gap. Meanwhile, Punjab FC sits in 11th place with 24 points from 22 matches.

Early Chances for FC Goa

From the very beginning, FC Goa started strong, creating chances through open play and set-pieces. In the eighth minute, Borja Herrera delivered a perfect corner to Odei Onaindia at the far post. Instead of shooting, Onaindia headed the ball to Carl McHugh. However, Punjab FC’s goalkeeper Muheet Shabir Khan anticipated the move and made a crucial save in the ninth minute.

McHugh Breaks the Deadlock

Just before halftime, McHugh finally put FC Goa ahead. Udanta Singh launched a long throw-in toward McHugh, who sprinted into the Punjab FC box. He controlled the ball and drilled it into the bottom left corner with his left foot, giving FC Goa a 1-0 lead.

Punjab FC Pushes Forward

After the break, Punjab FC attacked aggressively in the first 15 minutes of the second half. In the 57th minute, Ricky Shabong attempted a long-range shot from a throw-in. However, FC Goa’s goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari reacted quickly and saved it. Despite this, Punjab FC kept testing Goa’s defense. In the 64th minute, Petros Giakoumakis controlled a loose ball, turned sharply, and fired a powerful shot that narrowly missed the top right corner.

Missed Opportunities for Punjab FC

As the game progressed, Giakoumakis set up Tekcham Singh outside the penalty area in the 72nd minute. Singh chose to shoot instead of passing, but FC Goa’s defense blocked it. Later, in the 87th minute, Punjab FC created another chance. Ninthoinganba Meetei and Khaiminthang Lhungdim got close to goal, but unfortunately, Lhungdim’s left-footed shot flew high and wide.

McHugh Shines for FC Goa

Overall, McHugh played a key role, completing 59 out of 73 passes. Additionally, he contributed defensively with one tackle, one clearance, and three interceptions, along with scoring the winning goal.