ISL 2024-25: Hyderabad FC stun FC Goa for a draw through injury-time equaliser by Allan Paulista

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ISL 2024-25: In a dramatic showdown at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Hyderabad FC snatched a crucial point against FC Goa with a last-gasp equalizer by Allan Paulista in injury time, ensuring the game ended 1-1 in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25.

FC Goa dominated proceedings for much of the match, capitalizing on their attacking momentum early in the second half. After a first half marked by missed chances, the breakthrough came in the 52nd minute.

Armando Sadiku, who had been knocking on the door throughout the game, finally converted a rebound following a relentless attacking sequence by FC Goa. Boris Singh's precise cross set up Dejan Drazic for a header that was partially cleared by the Hyderabad defense, but Sadiku was perfectly placed to hammer the ball into the top right corner, giving Goa the lead.

The game turned chaotic in the second half with two red cards. FC Goa's Borja Herrera was sent off in the 59th minute for an altercation with Hyderabad's Alex Saji. Thirteen minutes later, Saji followed Herrera off the pitch after receiving his second yellow card for a foul on Sadiku, leaving both teams down to ten men.

Despite Goa's numerical advantage for a brief period, they couldn't capitalize, with their closest attempt coming from Aakash Sangwan's left-footed strike that missed the mark. Hyderabad FC, known for their resilience, dug deep in the dying moments. Isaac Vanmalsawma was instrumental, delivering a pinpoint cross in the 92nd minute. Paulista, positioned perfectly in the box, calmly slotted the ball into the bottom-left corner past a scrambling Goa defense, silencing the home crowd.

The draw is a blow to FC Goa, who were aiming to close the gap on league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant. Hyderabad FC, meanwhile, showcased their tenacity, securing their third draw of the season. FC Goa will next face NorthEast United FC on January 14, while Hyderabad FC will take on Bengaluru FC on January 18.