FC Goa registered a commanding 2-0 win over Mohammedan Sporting Club on Friday, February 20, 2026, at the Kishore Bharti Krirangan in Kolkata, sealing their first victory of the Indian Super League 2025-26 season. The result provisionally lifted the Gaurs to the top of the table with four points from two matches, while Mohammedan are still searching for their first point after consecutive defeats.
Pol Moreno set the tone early, heading home in the fourth minute from a Dejan Draić corner to give Goa the perfect start. The visitors continued to dictate proceedings and doubled their advantage in the 32nd minute when Draić calmly converted a penalty after Udanta Singh was fouled inside the box by goalkeeper Subhajit Bhattacharjee. Goa went into the break firmly in control with a two-goal cushion.
Early dominance sets the tone for Goa
Goa’s midfield control and fluid movement ensured they dominated possession throughout the first half. Brison Fernandes nearly made it 2-0 earlier with a diving header off Boris Singh’s cross, only for his effort to crash against the upright. Despite Mohammedan’s attempts to threaten on the counter, Goa’s structured defensive shape kept them largely at bay.
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The second goal further highlighted Goa’s composure, as Draić sent Bhattacharjee the wrong way from the spot. Even after extending their lead, the visitors continued to press, creating multiple chances but lacking the clinical edge to widen the margin before halftime.
Mohammedan’s fightback falls short
Mohammedan head coach Mehrajuddin Wadoo introduced three changes at the restart, bringing on Md. Fardin Ali Molla, Makan Winkle Chothe, and Lalngaihsaka to inject fresh energy. While the hosts showed greater urgency in the second half, Hrithik Tiwari remained largely untested in the Goa goal.
Goa continued to threaten, with Muhammed Nemil and Udanta Singh combining effectively, only to be denied by resolute defending from Sajad Hussain Parray. Nemil also forced a sharp save with a well-placed header, while Brison Fernandes failed to capitalise on another set-piece opportunity.
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Mohammedan’s best chance came in the 72nd minute when Lalthankima’s incisive run created a golden opportunity. Tiwari brilliantly saved Mahitosh Roy’s close-range effort, and Makan Winkle Chothe blazed the rebound over from six yards out.
Both sides created late openings, but the scoreline remained unchanged as Goa comfortably saw out the match to secure all three points and build early momentum in their ISL campaign.
