FC Goa overcome Jamshedpur challenge in rain-drenched Fatorda

Fatorda (Goa) [India], October 27 (ANI): On a rain-soaked Sunday night, FC Goa began their AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 title defence with a composed 2-0 victory over Jamshedpur FC in a Group B encounter at the PJN Stadium, Fatorda, on October 26, 2025. Goals from Javier Siverio and Dejan Drazic on either side of half-time sealed a deserved win.

Heavy rains lashed the venue throughout the evening. The second half kick-off was delayed by 24 minutes due to the downpour, but the Gaurs showed the same calm authority that made them champions last season. By the end of the night, they had not only secured three points but also sent a clear message to the rest of the group, according to an AIFF press release.

It was a rematch of last season's Super Cup final, where FC Goa outclassed Jamshedpur 3-0. Jamshedpur had come into this clash hoping to exact some revenge, but despite brief flashes of promise, they could not impose themselves on the contest.

From the outset, both sides struggled to adapt to the conditions. The sodden pitch had puddles forming everywhere, killing the bounce of the ball and making every pass and tackle uncertain. Neither team was willing to overcommit early, wary of how one slip or misjudged move could prove costly.

Despite this, it was FC Goa who gradually found their rhythm and created the first chance of the game. Borja Herrera tried a clever curling corner from the right, forcing Jamshedpur goalkeeper Albino Gomes to tip the ball over the bar. That early chance gave the Gaurs the confidence to settle into their passing game. Herrera, Siverio and Udanta combined neatly to create openings, while their defence stayed alert to Jamshedpur's rare counter-attacks.

Jamshedpur's best chance came midway through the first half. A chaotic goalmouth scramble ended with Eric Messi Bouli unmarked inside the box. He had time and space to pick his spot, but shot straight at FC Goa goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari, squandering what would be their best opportunity of the match.

FC Goa finally broke the deadlock in the 45th minute. Udanta Singh floated in a free-kick which was flicked on by Ayush Dev Chhetri, and Javier Siverio timed his run perfectly to meet it with a powerful header into the net, the AIFF press release added.

When play resumed after the weather delay, the rain had eased slightly, but FC Goa's grip on the match only tightened. They doubled their advantage in the 66th minute. Herrera delivered a dangerous corner from the left, and David Timor Copovi rose highest to power a header against the crossbar. The rebound fell kindly to Dejan Drazic, who smashed in a volley to make it 2-0.

Jamshedpur tried to mount a late response, pushing bodies forward in search of a goal, but FC Goa's backline remained compact. Despite the wet and heavy conditions, the defending champions looked more organised and far more confident to comfortably notch a win. (ANI)

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