FATORDA: Heartbreak for FC Goa, who were just minutes away from recording their historic first win in the Asian Football Confederation Champions League at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda. Jorge Ortiz had given the Gaurs a dream start with a sublime third minute finish but Al Rayyan struck in the 89th minute through Ali Farydoon.
The positive, they now have three draws in the competition.
FC Goa were back in the business having named their best and strongest line-up against Al Rayyan. While Edu Bedia returned from his suspension, Juan Ferrando had Brandon Fernandes, Glan Martins in the midfield, more importantly Dheeraj Singh was back in the goal.
It’s been a difficult competition for Al Rayyan and FC Goa took just three minutes to pile more misery on Laurent Blanc’s side scoring their second goal of the competition. Brandon Fernandes sent a sensational ball over the top from the centre where Jorge Ortiz chased it well before beating Al Rayyan keeper Saud Al Hajiri to score in the empty net.
Brandon’s presence in midfield made it easier for home side to control the game. His vision
Dheeraj showcased what Goa missed in the previous game as he pulled off double save to deny Yohan Boli, not once but twice.
Al Rayyan dominated possession but that wasn’t just enough to see them through to get the goal. There were series of chances through set-pieces and open play for the Qatari team, but Yachin Brahimi and co were left frustrated by the Goan custodian and defence.
FC Goa almost conceded just before the breather when it looked like Al Rayyan striker nearly got past Dheeraj, but Ivan Gonzalez made a crucial last ditch tackle to push the ball for a corner.
It was end to end battle just before the breather where FC Goa nearly scored on their counter attack. Ishan Pandita on getting the ball in his own half got near the centre line and attempted an ambitious shot, which was dealt by Al Rayyan keeper Al Hajiri.
FC Goa continued their resolute display in defence though allowing the Blanc’s side to enjoy maximum possession. In the 57th minute, Romeo Fernandes was introduced to the game, who made his first appearance for the senior team since his last in 2016. Though the Goan poster boy couldn’t much impact upfront, he made vital interceptions in the defence.
In the 72nd minute, Romeo set Glan Martins with a layoff but the midfielder’s shot just sailed over the bar.
With just four minutes left on the clock, FC Goa looked to have sealed the game when Romeo and Devendra paired and the latter played a deft pass to Seriton. The fullback darted into the area, but after a couple of turns, lost control, ultimately losing possession. Had he taken a shot at goal, it would have produced something.
But FC Goa failed to hold on to their slender lead and finally conceded in the 89th minute when Dheeraj failed to deal with a low cross where Ali Farydoon fired home with a powerful shot. Dheeraj produced a fine save to ensure a point for his side.
