Late drama as FC Goa stage epic comeback over Punjab FC to reach Kalinga Super Cup semis

FC Goa completed a dramatic late comeback to defeat Punjab FC 2-1 in the Kalinga Super Cup 2025 quarter-finals at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Saturday.

Goals from Borja Herrera and Mohammad Yasir in the dying moments saw the Gaurs book their place in the semifinals of the competition.

After a tightly contested first half that ended goalless mainly thanks to a fantastic diving save off Nikhil Prabhu’s early header on target by FC Goa goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari, it was Punjab FC who drew first blood in the 56th minute.

Muhammad Suhail’s effort from the right side of the box rattled the post, but the rebound fell invitingly for Ezequiel Pulga Vidal. His strike, taking a wicked deflection off Goa captain Odei Onaindia, rolled into the corner past a helpless Hrithik to hand their opposition the advantage.

Manolo Marquez’s men, however, refused to back down. The FC Goa head coach’s timely substitutions proved pivotal, injecting fresh energy and attacking intent into his side. Sahil Tavora, brought on for Ayush Chhetri, added composure in midfield, while the bold decision to replace star defender Sandesh Jhingan with young striker Alan Saji showcased Manolo’s intent to chase the game.

Their persistence paid off in the 89th minute. Substitute Brison Fernandes whipped in a teasing ball into the box, which the Punjab defence failed to clear convincingly. The ball fell to Borja Herrera, who controlled it expertly before smashing it past Muheet Khan at the near post to bring the Gaurs level.

With the competition rules dictating that the match would go straight to penalties after 90 minutes if tied, Goa pressed for a winner – and they found it in dramatic fashion during stoppage time.

Dejan Drazic floated in a cross from the left, and while Pramveer Singh attempted a clearance, it only reached the edge of the box where Mohammad Yasir – who had earlier replaced Carl McHugh – was waiting. Yasir’s shot took a crucial deflection off Ivan Novoselec, wrong-footing the goalkeeper and nestling into the corner of the net, sealing a sensational comeback.

With the win, FC Goa continue their impressive run under Manolo Marquez and will now turn their focus to a blockbuster semifinal clash in the Kalinga Super Cup, against Mohun Bagan Super Giant next Wednesday.