ISL: FC Goa reinforce second-place hold with win against Blasters- Talking points

FC Goa continued their dominant run in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 with a clinical 2-0 victory over Kerala Blasters FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa.

The win cemented their hold on second place in the points table with 42 points while also delaying Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s potential league title triumph.

Goals from Iker Guarrotxena and Mohammed Yasir ensured that the Gaurs remained in control throughout the match.

Here are the five major talking points from this crucial encounter:

#5 Iker Guarrotxena enters ISL’s elite Spanish scorers list

Spanish forward Iker Guarrotxena’s goal in the 46th minute not only opened the scoring but also marked a personal milestone.

With this strike, he became only the fifth Spaniard to score 20 or more goals in ISL history, joining an elite club of successful foreign strikers.

His experience and finishing ability were on full display, as he capitalized on a rebound following Dejan Drazic’s powerful shot, slotting the ball into the bottom right corner.

#4 Kerala Blasters’ attacking struggles continue

Kerala Blasters FC once again struggled to create clear-cut chances in attack. Despite having a decent share of possession, they managed just one shot on target throughout the 90 minutes.

The lack of incisive passes in the final third and an inability to break through FC Goa’s well-structured defense proved costly.

The absence of key attacking figures further highlighted their struggles in front of goal.

#3 FC Goa’s midfield dominance and pressing strategy

The Gaurs dictated the tempo of the match through their midfield control, led by Carl McHugh. His ability to switch play and launch quick counter-attacks allowed FC Goa to stretch Kerala Blasters’ defense.

McHugh’s clever passing was evident in the build-up to the second goal, where he released Aakash Sangwan, who in turn set up Yasir for a simple tap-in.

Goa’s relentless pressing also forced Kerala Blasters into mistakes, disrupting their buildup play.

#2 Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s title wait extended

FC Goa’s victory had broader ramifications beyond just the points table. A loss for Goa in this match would have automatically crowned Mohun Bagan Super Giant as ISL League Winners.

However, the Gaurs ensured that the Mariners’ title celebrations would be delayed at least until their next fixture.

Mohun Bagan will now have to win against Odisha FC to confirm their championship status.

#1 FC Goa’s defensive solidity and clinical finishing

While their attack shone, FC Goa’s defense deserves immense credit for keeping a clean sheet against a Kerala Blasters side desperate for a breakthrough.

The backline remained compact, cutting off passing lanes and limiting the opposition to long-range efforts. Prateek Kumar Singh and Odei Onaindia’s defensive partnership was rock solid, ensuring that Kamaljit Singh was rarely troubled.

Meanwhile, their efficiency in front of goal—converting two of their six shots on target—proved to be the difference on the night.

Their next fixture against Punjab FC on February 27 will be crucial in further cementing their position. Meanwhile, Kerala Blasters FC will have to regroup quickly as they prepare to take on Jamshedpur FC on March 1.