ISL 2024-25: FC Goa outscore Odisha FC 4-2, Brison Fernandes stars with brace

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ISL 2024-25: FC Goa secured a dominant 4-2 victory over Odisha FC at the Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, propelling them to third place in the Indian Super League (ISL) standings with 25 points.

The Gaurs, under Manolo Marquez, extended their unbeaten away streak to seven matches, asserting their prowess against Sergio Lobera's Odisha side, which remains winless in 11 encounters with Goa.

Brison Fernandes was the standout performer, netting a brace for the second consecutive match. He opened the scoring in the 8th minute after capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Odisha's Mourtada Fall. Fernandes showcased composure, controlling the loose ball with his chest before slotting it into the bottom-right corner.

Odisha equalized in the 29th minute when Ahmed Jahouh executed a cheeky panenka penalty, converting a spot kick earned by Jerry Lalrinzuala, who marked his 150th ISL appearance. The stalemate didn't last long, as FC Goa reclaimed the lead in first-half stoppage time. Udanta Singh struck after Iker Guarrotxena's incisive play disrupted Odisha's defense, with Udanta calmly finishing from the right flank.

Fernandes struck again in the 53rd minute with a brilliant solo effort. Receiving the ball from Sandesh Jhingan, he exhibited superb footwork and fired a stunning shot into the top-right corner from outside the box, securing his brace. Just three minutes later, an own goal by Amey Ranawade, who inadvertently redirected Guarrotxena's cross into Odisha's net, further extended Goa's lead to 4-1.

Despite being outplayed, Odisha managed a consolation goal in the 83rd minute. Jerry Mawihmingthanga headed in Thoiba Singh's precise cross from close range, reducing the deficit. However, Odisha's late efforts proved insufficient against a well-organized Goa side.

The victory highlights FC Goa's attacking flair and defensive discipline, with Brison Fernandes emerging as a key player in their campaign. Odisha FC, meanwhile, faces increasing pressure as their winless streak against the Gaurs continues.

With this commanding win, FC Goa appears poised for a strong finish in the ISL, while Odisha will need to regroup and address defensive vulnerabilities to reignite their season.