Football

FC Goa edge past Sudeva Delhi to progress to the quarterfinals of the Durand Cup; Ortiz suffers major blow

With two wins under their belt Indian Super League outfit FC Goa have qualified for the knockouts of the Durand Cup. Last day they defeated I-League side Sudeva Delhi 2-1 in a rather dominant fashion to proceed to the quarterfinals.

The Gaurs were handed the lead by talented youngster Muhammad Nemil. The Kerala born midfielder came up with a scorching effort from long range to beat the Sudeva custodian and handed FC Goa a very crucial lead.

FC Goa was impressed by Nemil when he came on from the bench and featured against Army Green. Therefore the Spanish tactician handed him a start and the youngster did not disappoint. The 19-year-old midfielder plied his trade in Spain for lower division outfit UDA Gramenet’s U19 team. He has also featured in another Spanish outfit known as Fundacion Marcet. The Reliance Foundation Youth Champ graduate has really grown into a big sensation in Indian football.

Nemil’s goal had a touch of class in it as he cut back on his right on the edge of the box and made space for himself before pulling the trigger with his left leg. The ball went swerving in and thundered into the roof of the net.

The match was very dull before the opening goal. While FC Goa enjoyed the lion’s share of the possession but Sudeva defended really well to frustrate their ISL counterparts. The Delhi based outfit also came close to scoring in the second half when Michael Singh’s shot struck the woodwork.

Later in the game Ferrando introduced Edu Bedia and Jorge Ortiz, handing them their first appearance of this season. The Gaurs doubled their lead through Ortiz but it came at the cost of him being injured. He was tripped down by Sudeva Delhi midfielder Akbar Khan in the process. Therefore despite scoring, Ortiz was stretchered off the ground.

Later club officials have revealed that Ortiz will not take part in the Durand Cup anymore due to injury. But there are questions over his return as some people feel that he may miss the start of the upcoming Indian Super League season. It is a big blow for the Gaurs but they will hope that the Spaniard returns to the pitch soon.

The match ended on a sour note as Sudeva Delhi pulled a goal back as the Gaurs conceded a penalty. William Pauliankhum stepped up to take it and finished it with relative ease.

 

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Young Shuttlers Ayush Shetty, Unnati Hooda Storm Into Taipei Open Quarterfinals

India's emerging badminton stars Ayush Shetty and Unnati Hooda continued their impressive runs at the… Read More

May 9, 2025

IPL 2025 Faces Suspension Amid Escalating India-Pakistan Tensions

The 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is on the brink of suspension… Read More

May 9, 2025

Lalrindika Replaces Yadwad in India’s Provisional Squad for June Internationals

Edmund Lalrindika has been called up to replace the medically sidelined Irfan Yadwad in India’s… Read More

May 9, 2025

Ange Postecoglou slams critics, says people ‘fear’ Spurs might win Europa League

Tottenham Hotspur head coach Ange Postecoglou has lashed out at the club’s critics after they… Read More

May 9, 2025

Carlos Alcaraz gives injury update ahead of Italian Open

Carlos Alcaraz has revealed that he is good to go at the Italian Open and… Read More

May 9, 2025

Man City forward Erling Haaland blames lack of ‘hunger’ for poor season

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland feels the lack of hunger led to their poor season.… Read More

May 9, 2025