Gaurs suffer first ACL defeat against Persepolis


Gaurs suffer first ACL defeat against Persepolis

On a historic night of football, FC Goa’s Edu Bedia the first-ever goal for Gaurs in the 14th minute and the team looked on their way for a big upset in the Continental tournament. However, the Iranian side staged a strong comeback to defeat Gaurs 2-1 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Fatorda on Tuesday.

ADVERTISEMENT

Match Report: Gaurs succumbed to the pressure after a start

Brandon Fernandes was key for Gaurs
Brandon Fernandes was key for Gaurs

After a great stalemate against Al Wahda three days before, FC Goa locked their horns with Persepolis at Fatorda. Before the clash, FC Goa had two points from two games whereas Persepolis had two wins from two games. Juan Ferrando fielded his side in a 4-5-1 formation whereas the Iranian outfit seemed a more attacking side with 4-4-2. Despite overloading the midfield with numbers, FC Goa had only 37% of the possession throughout the game.

Against the Iranian champions, FC Goa started the game on a great tempo. Brandon Fernandes’ free-kick was headed home in the 14th minute by Edu Bedia in a spectacular fashion. However, the side failed to keep hold of the ball and the complexion of the game changed within a blink of an eye. The team conceded two goals in the space of ten minutes and Gaurs were pegged back.

The hero of FC Goa against Al Wahda, Dheeraj Singh, once again proved why he is the perfect heir to Gurpreet Singh Sandhu’s throne. The shot-stopper kept Gaurs in the game with some spectacular shots. However, Persepolis’ domination in the midfield and impenetrable defense made life difficult for FC Goa. The Indian outfit had just one shot in the second half against the Iranian champions.

ADVERTISEMENT

With a victory, Persepolis are on top of the points table with nine points whereas FC Goa stands third in the group. Al Wahda with four points are second on the points table. With three games to play, Juan Ferrando’s side can still make it to the knockout stages of the Asian Champions League.

Also Read: Ed Woodward resigns as Manchester United executive Vice-chairman