ISL 2024-25, FC Goa vs NorthEast United: Borja Herrera scores late equalizer to salvage a point against Highlanders

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FC Goa's return to the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw against NorthEast United FC in the Indian Super League (ISL).

Borja Herrera's injury-time equaliser ensured the Gaurs avoided defeat on Friday. The fantastic six-goal thriller at the West coast means both teams remained in the playoff zone after the match.

FC Goa vs NorthEast United - As it Happened

NorthEast United's Early Lead

The visitors started strong with Néstor Albiach scoring in the 6th minute. He skilfully navigated past FC Goa's defence and fired a left-footed shot beyond Laxmikant Kattimani. Goa responded by creating several chances but failed to capitalise on them early.

Between the 14th and 20th minutes, Ayush Chhetri, Sadiku, and Dejan Dražić all attempted shots without success. NorthEast United nearly extended their lead at the 30-minute mark, but Alaeddine Ajaraie's effort was thwarted by Kattimani.

Goa's First-Half Comeback

FC Goa's best opportunity came in the 38th minute when Boris Singh set up Dražić, who assisted Sadiku for a shot that narrowly missed. Just before half-time, FC Goa earned a penalty after Mohammed Ali Bemammer fouled Dražić inside the box.

Sadiku confidently converted the penalty, bringing his goal tally to nine in eight matches and levelling the score at 1-1. The Albanian striker struck again shortly after halftime with a close-range finish from Boris Singh's cross.

Highlanders' Quick Response

NorthEast United quickly responded as Albiach equalised at 2-2 just four minutes later. He found space in the box and connected with Ajaraie's pass. They then took the lead in the 56th minute when Ajaraie dispossessed Dražić and curled a shot past Kattimani.

FC Goa continued to press for an equaliser. Sadiku nearly completed his hat-trick in the 65th minute but couldn't connect with Herrera's long ball. Aakash Sangwan also had a chance to level in the 74th minute, but Gurmeet Singh made an impressive save. In stoppage time, Borja Herrera secured a point for FC Goa with his fourth goal of the season. His performance places him atop the ISL 2024-25 Golden Boot charts.

FCG vs NEUFC - The Aftermath

Currently sitting fourth on the standings with five points, FC Goa will regroup during the international break before facing Mumbai City FC at home on October 19. On the other hand, the Highlanders are placed 5th in the points table and will be playing Chennaiyin in their next encounter on October 17.

FCG vs NEUFC Brief Score

FC Goa: 3 ( Armando Sadiku 45+2', 47'; Borja Herrera 90+4')

NorthEast United: 3 (Nestor Albiach 6', 51', Alaeddine Ajaraei 56').