FC Goa secured their record-extending third AIFF Super Cup title on Sunday, defeating East Bengal 6-5 in a penalty shootout after a goalless 120 minutes at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda. Substitute Sahil Tavora slotted home the winning penalty after East Bengal's P.V. Vishnu blazed his spot-kick over the bar.
The hosts became the first team to successfully defend the Super Cup title, adding to their previous triumphs in the competition.
East Bengal successfully nullified FC Goa's usual rhythm for much of the game. Despite head coach Oscar Bruzon's absence from the touchline, the visitors executed a strict game plan, particularly in marking Goa's midfield lynchpin Borja Herrera.
They created several opportunities, with Bipin Singh proving dangerous on the flanks while, Hiroshi Ibusuki missed key chances. FC Goa goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari was called into action multiple times, including a crucial goal-line clearance in the second half to deny Vishnu.
FC Goa found their stride late in the game, hitting the woodwork through Brison Fernandes and creating nervous moments for the East Bengal defense. However, neither side could break the deadlock in regulation or extra time.
The shootout began nervously for Goa as Herrera struck the crossbar, but they were brought back into contention when Mohammad Rashid and Vishnu missed for East Bengal.
Head coach Manolo Marquez acknowledged the difficulty of the contest, stating, "It was a very tactical game, and the score was fair in my opinion... I don’t believe too much when people say penalty shoot-outs are lotteries, but today, I felt it was because both teams were completely dead."
The victory held an important turning point for the home crowd, who had witnessed their team lose two consecutive ISL semifinals at the same venue. "To do it in front of our fans is a very nice feeling," said Herrera, reflecting on the win. "We felt that they deserved this victory and this trophy."
Marquez also highlighted the importance of consistent continental qualification, adding, "We need to qualify every season to increase our level because when you play against better players, your level improves."
For East Bengal, the defeat marks another heartbreak in a major final, following their recent IFA Shield loss on penalties. Assistant coach Bino George felt his side were unlucky not to win in regulation time, noting, "We had more chances at the home of FC Goa, we dominated the first half entirely." Despite the loss, the Kolkata giants pushed the defending champions to the limit in a closely contested finale.
