Tag: FC Goa

Sports

FC Goa Sign Promising Goan Midfielder Harsh Patre for the 2025-26 Season

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Panaji, July 2025 — FC Goa have announced the signing of 22-year-old Goan midfielder Harsh Patre, bringing back one of the state’s finest young talents ahead of the 2025-26 Indian Super League season.

Patre, who began his football journey at the Goa Football Development Council (GFDC) academy, first caught the attention of FC Goa’s scouting team back in the 2018-19 AIFF Junior League, while ironically playing against the Gaurs’ U15 team. His composure, technique, and footballing intelligence at such a young age made a lasting impression.

Over the years, Patre honed his skills with the Indian Arrows, a developmental side run by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), giving him crucial exposure in the I-League. His performances there earned him a move to Bengaluru FC in the 2022-23 season, where he made rapid progress from the reserves to the ISL senior team.

“We’ve tracked Harsh for years,” said Lokesh Bherwani, FC Goa’s Director of Football. “From his time at GFDC to his I-League stint, we always believed he’d return home. We are confident he will be a vital player for us this season and beyond.”

The signing aligns with FC Goa’s philosophy of nurturing homegrown talent and solidifying its Goan core. Patre’s ability to control midfield tempo and make intelligent decisions fits seamlessly into FC Goa’s possession-based style.

Speaking about the move, Harsh said:

“Coming back to play for FC Goa is a dream come true. As a Goan, this club has always had a special place in my heart. I’m grateful for this opportunity and will give everything for the badge.”

The 2025-26 season looks promising for the Gaurs, with exciting new additions like Patre complementing an already competitive squad. Fans can expect to see him make a mark in midfield, inspired by both home pride and professional ambition.

Sports

Kalinga Super Cup: FC Goa find their moment after a season of almosts

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In a season full of heartbreaks and hard luck, FC Goa needed a redemption arc.

After coming heartbreakingly close in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season, finishing second on the table despite matching last season’s Shield-winning points tally, and then exiting in the playoffs in the most gut-wrenching fashion, it felt like the football gods owed them something. And the dream is now fulfilled.

The Kalinga Super Cup, in its shiny new knockout format, was not for the faint-hearted. One bad day and you were sent packing. But under the weight of expectations and with the bitter taste of a near-miss in the ISL still fresh, FC Goa chose not to crumble. They beat Jamshedpur FC in the final to be crowned winners of the Kalinga Super Cup on Saturday, providing a fitting end to a memorable season.

Their campaign kicked off in familiar, comfortable fashion with a 3-0 win over Gokulam Kerala FC in the Round of 16. It was the kind of no-fuss win with Iker Guarrotxena’s hat-trick proving to be the highlight. Job done, clean sheet in the bag and the Gaurs were up and running.

Then came the quarter-final clash against Punjab FC. And boy, did this one have drama. Trailing for most of the match, the Gaurs looked like they were staring down at another so close, yet so far moment. But Two late goals turned despair into delirium and sent the Gaurs into the semi-finals with a comeback that was about guts and guile.

Awaiting them next were Mohun Bagan Super Giant. Or rather, a youthful version of the Kolkata club, with fresh legs and zero fear. FC Goa had opened the scoring, only to see the Mariners bounce back within minutes. Old wounds threatened to reopen. But FC Goa did what seasoned sides do best: they settled, they adapted and then they struck. The 3-1 win was nothing short of a statement, although having got the better of the Mariners.

The stage for the final was set with Jamshedpur FC in their way. The same Jamshedpur FC who’d done the double over them in the league.

From the first whistle, FC Goa looked like team not playing with pressure but with purpose. Once Borja Herrera opened the scoring, they never looked back. They bossed the midfield, moved the ball with flair and defended with all their heart. It was a sweet victory, one that they deserved after hardly putting a foot wrong.

History made

FC Goa did not only secure the Cup, but they also won their way back into Asia. For the first time since their historic 2020-21 campaign in the AFC Champions League, FC Goa are back on the continental stage, this time in the newly-launched AFC Champions League 2. It may not be the main stage but it’s still Asia and it gives them a chance to compete at the one of the biggest stages for an Indian club.

And as the champagne popped and confetti rained down in Bhubaneswar, FC Goa showed they are done knocking on the door. They’re kicking it down.

Sports

FC Goa Aims for Semi-Final Spot Against Punjab FC in Kalinga Super Cup Quarter-Final

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FC Goa is set to face Punjab FC in the quarter-final of the Kalinga Super Cup 2025, with a spot in the semi-finals on the line. After a dominant 3-0 win against Gokulam Kerala FC in the Round of 16, the Gaurs are riding high on confidence.

Key Players to Watch

  • Iker Guarrotxena: The Spanish midfielder’s stunning hat-trick in the previous match showcased his form and potential to be a game-changer in the knockout rounds.
  • Hrithik Tiwari: The goalkeeper’s impressive performances have been a crucial factor in FC Goa’s success.
  • Odei Onaindia and Sandesh Jhingan: The defensive pairing has added steel to FC Goa’s backline, making them a formidable opponent.

Head-to-Head Record
FC Goa has historically had the edge over Punjab FC, remaining unbeaten in their last four meetings with three wins and one draw. However, the knockout format brings added pressure and unpredictability, and FC Goa will be cautious not to underestimate their opponents.

Match Details

  • Kick-off Time: 8:00 PM IST
  • Broadcast: Live on Star Sports 3
  • Streaming: JioHotstar

Semi-Final Implications
The winner of this match will face the winner of the Kerala Blasters vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant match in the semi-finals. With a balanced squad and sharp attacking intent, FC Goa aims to carry forward their winning rhythm and book a spot in the semi-finals.

Sports

FC Goa and Armando Sadiku Part Ways Ahead of Super Cup

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In a mutual decision, FC Goa and Albanian striker Armando Sadiku have parted ways ahead of the Kalinga Super Cup 2025. This development comes as the team prepares to face Gokulam Kerala FC in the tournament.


During his time with FC Goa, Sadiku made a significant impact, scoring 10 goals and providing 2 assists in 24 ISL appearances. His impressive form was evident in his first seven consecutive games, where he scored 8 goals. Although he struggled to find the back of the net in the latter part of the season, his contributions to the team were invaluable.


Sadiku’s journey with FC Goa was marked by several notable moments, including:

  • Crucial Wins: He played a vital role in FC Goa’s 2-1 victory over Punjab FC, scoring a goal and helping the team come back from behind.
  • Goal-scoring Prowess: Sadiku’s ability to find the back of the net was impressive, and he finished as FC Goa’s top scorer in the ISL 2024-25 season.

With Sadiku’s departure, FC Goa will regroup and focus on their upcoming matches. The team will look to build on their existing squad and make a strong impression in the Kalinga Super Cup.

Sports

FC Goa Shatters 13-Match Winless Streak Against Mumbai City with Thrilling 3-1 Victory

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In an electrifying Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 match, FC Goa delivered a stunning performance to outclass Mumbai City FC 3-1 at the Mumbai Football Arena on Wednesday. This victory marked a significant milestone for the Gaurs, as they broke their 13-match winless streak against the Islanders in the competition.


FC Goa’s triumph was built on a dominant display, with Iker Guarrotxena stealing the show with a brilliant brace. Borja Herrera sealed the win with a goal in the second half, propelling the Gaurs to second place in the standings with 39 points from 20 games.


Guarrotxena opened the scoring in the 24th minute with a breathtaking solo effort. Picking up the ball at the edge of the 18-yard box, he dribbled past the Mumbai City FC defense before striking a precise shot into the bottom right corner. This goal set the tone for FC Goa’s victory.


After Guarrotxena’s second goal in the 41st minute, FC Goa extended their lead in the 64th minute when Herrera capitalized on a poor headed clearance by Mehtab Singh. Left unmarked inside the box, Herrera calmly placed his shot into the bottom right corner, securing a 3-0 lead for the Gaurs.


Despite FC Goa’s defensive efforts, Mumbai City FC earned a late penalty after goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari committed a foul. Lallianzuala Chhangte stepped up and converted from the spot with a left-footed shot down the middle, denying FC Goa a clean sheet. However, the Gaurs comfortably walked away with all three points.


FC Goa’s head coach, Manolo Marquez, made strategic substitutions to secure the victory, bringing in Dejan Drazic, Seriton Fernandes, and Sahil Tavora for Herrera, Udanta, and Ayush Dev Chhetri. This tactical move ensured that the Gaurs maintained their lead and closed out the match.


FC Goa’s 3-1 victory over Mumbai City FC marked a significant turning point in their ISL campaign. With this win, the Gaurs strengthened their position in the standings and sent a strong message to their competitors. As the ISL season unfolds, FC Goa will look to build on this momentum and make a push for the top spot.