FC Goa started the match with determination and kept the competition tight with Al Nassr. The visitors shined brightly even in absence of Cristiano Ronaldo as midfielder Angelo Gabriel scored the opener with a magnificent curling effort from outside the box. Goa’s defensive shape remained solid, but an early injury saw Javier Siverio being replaced, and Brison Fernandes coming in.
Al Nassr Double Their Advantage
Riding on confidence from the opener, Al Nassr mounted pressure and soon found their second. Angelo Gabriel turned provider, joining hands with Ayman, whose cross reached Haroune Camara. The defender pushed aside the opposition to make it 2-0. Goa’s first half-chance was provided by Boris Singh Thangjam, whose tireless run down the flank caused alarm but lacked the finishing.
Fernandes Lifts the Crowd
The tide was turned when substitute Brison Fernandes produced a moment of magic. The 24-year-old placed the ball into the far corner, bringing the Fatorda crowd to its feet in ecstasy. The goal revealed occasional defensive lapses from Al Nassr and indicated Goa’s determination not to give up.
Late Drama but No Equaliser
The second period witnessed Al Nassr’s tempo drop, leading to the inclusion of superstars Sadio Mane and Joao Felix. Goa had almost equalized when Boris Singh was left through on goal, only for Bento’s swift reflexes to deny the draw. With minutes remaining, Goa put pressure with a string of corners and Nemil’s rasping runs, though none yielded fruit.
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A late red card on David Timor for a reckless tackle in stoppage time doused Goa’s resistance. Al Nassr were able to hold on for a narrow 2-1 win, but FC Goa’s daring display spearheaded by Fernandes’ goal was appreciated and respected on Asia’s largest stage.
