Failure to convert their chances came back to haunt FC Goa yet again in their penultimate game of a season to forget for the Gaurs as goals from Mehtab Singh and Diego Mauricio helped Mumbai City secure a 2-0 win over FC Goa at the SAG Athletic Stadium in Bambolim on Saturday.
The Gaurs dominated proceedings despite missing the services of some key players viz. Anwar Ali, Edu Bedia and Brandon Fernandes, among others. The Men in Orange though couldn't stave off a third straight defeat.
While Mumbai City FC got the ball rolling from the kick-off, FC Goa had the earliest chances to score via Alexander Romario Jesuraj in the seventh minute. The winger first headed wide off Makan Chothe’s cross, and seconds later saw his shot on goal blocked at close range.
The Gaurs got the perfect opportunity to take the lead in the 18th minute, when Mumbai goalkeeper Mohammad Nawaz fouled Airam Cabrera in the box. The 22-year-old redeemed himself immediately after, by saving the Spaniard’s penalty.
FC Goa continued to create chances, as Devendra Murgaokar and Cabrera both tried their luck from inside the box. While the former shot wide, Cabrera’s attempt was once again saved by Nawaz who had a very good first half.
With just seven minutes left before the half-time whistle, Mumbai then took the lead through Mehtab Singh. The defender did well to lose his marker before placing his header to perfection off a free-kick by Cassio Gabriel. This also turned out to be the final action of the first half - another disappointing one for the Gaurs after failing to capitalise on their dominant display.
The second half was a repeat of the first. Despite starting on the front foot and creating the best chances, the lack of precision in the final third cost FC Goa dearly.
Issues in defence added insult to injury, as Diego Mauricio capitalised on a miscommunication between Goa defenders to score a late goal and seal the contest for Mumbai City.
The Gaurs had more possession (60%) and attempted the most shots (12) as usual, but could not convert those numbers into goals. As a result of the defeat, they remain in ninth place with 18 points from 19 matches. Mumbai, meanwhile, reclaimed their fourth place from Kerala Blasters.
FC Goa will return to action on March 6, when they face the Blasters in their final match of the season.
FC Goa Media Release