FC Goa 1-1 NorthEast United: 3 talking points from lower half stalemate

FC Goa and NorthEast United played out a 1-1 draw to share a point each in the ISL. Here are the three key talking points from the stalemate at the Athletic Stadium in Bambolim. 

FC Goa launch attacking onslaught 

The Gaurs finally looked like their former selves against NorthEast United today, especially in the second half. They dominated possession and ended with 62% of the ball in their control. 

But despite having 8 out of 19 shots on goal, they were unable to score more than the solitary goal courtesy of Airan Cabrera. 

NorthEast United barely survive 

The NorthEast United defense was found lacking on a number of occasions in the second half. FC Goa thought they had found a breakthrough in the second period. But, the referee ruled out the goal since he believed that NorthEast defender Mirshad Michu had been fouled in the build-up. 

Although they found the early goal and were going forward as well, the second half performance was completely opposite to what we saw in the first period. 

Little hope beyond the bottom 

Khalid Jamil might find it difficult to steer the Highlanders out of the depths of the table. The same can be said for fellow Indian coach Derrick Pereira, who took charge of FC Goa replacing Juan Ferrando. 

But, things look marginally better for Pereira based on the displays on the pitch, and they have a chance to achieve a mid-table finish this season. Things don’t look as positive for Jamil this season, on the other hand.