FC Goa vs Rangdajied United, Durand Cup 2024: Gaurs win 4-3 in mouth-watering clash against wildcard Rangdajied

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FC Goa (FCG) narrowly defeated Rangdajied United FC (RUFC) in a thrilling seven-goal match, starting their Durand Cup 2024 campaign with a 4-3 victory in Group F at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong.

Goals from Leander D’Cunha, Devendra Murgaokar, Abawiha, and Vellington secured the win for the Gaurs, while Pajuh, Pynbha, and Apbor scored for the newly included team.

FC Goa's head coach Israil Gurung fielded a youthful lineup featuring both second eleven players and experienced campaigners like Devendra Dhaku Murgaokar and Akash Oraow. Rangdajied United FC’s head coach Aibanjop Shadap opted for a traditional 4-3-3 formation.

Despite heavy rain making the ground conditions difficult, both teams attacked from the start. RUFC took the lead in the 19th minute when Pajuh capitalized on a defensive lapse to score a sensational long-range goal.

Both teams fought equally hard, with RUFC effectively finding gaps with precise passing. FCG created several dangerous chances, but RUFC's Aenam posed consistent problems for the Gaurs, who defended well.

Early in the second half, Goa earned a penalty after a tackle by the RUFC goalkeeper. Leander D’Cunha's initial shot was saved, but he quickly scored on the rebound. Devendra then put Goa ahead with a well-placed finish following a cross from the right flank.

RUFC equalized within two minutes when Pynbha scored a stunning goal from a throw-in, curling the ball into the top right corner. Goa regained the lead through another penalty after an RUFC handball, with Abawiha's shot narrowly beating the goalkeeper. RUFC equalized again with Apbor's impressive shot from a tight angle.

In the final moments, Goa clinched the win. Likson's attempt from a tight angle hit the bar, but Vellington was perfectly positioned to score from the rebound, securing a dramatic victory in the dying seconds.