FC Goa has successfully secured the services of Hyderabad FC winger, Mohammad Yasir, in a significant loan move. This reunion between Yasir and coach Manolo Marquez promises to inject new vigor into Goa’s midfield.
Late on Friday, after extensive negotiations, FC Goa finalized the paperwork for Yasir’s loan move. Despite competition from two other clubs vying for his signature, the influential connection with coach Manolo Marquez proved pivotal in sealing the deal.
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When is FC Goa's next match?
FC Goa face Bengaluru FC on 17th of January at the Kalinga Super Cup from 2 pm IST.
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A Reunion in Goa: Mohammad Yasir Returns to FC Goa on Loan
A reliable source confirmed, “It’s a done deal. Hyderabad has already signed the documents,” marking the official confirmation of Yasir’s move to Goa. The timing of the signing allows Goa to register Yasir for the Super Cup just before the January 13 deadline.
Yasir, a talented 25-year-old midfielder, is set to commence training with FC Goa on Saturday. His history with Coach Manolo, who previously spent three years at Hyderabad FC, played a crucial role in shaping Yasir’s skills as both a winger and attacking midfielder.
Having showcased his prowess with Hyderabad FC, Yasir earned his debut with the Indian national team in 2021. Though not part of the AFC Asian Cup 2023 squad, Yasir’s versatility in playing on the wings and centrally positions him as a valuable asset.
A source expressed optimism, stating, “Yasir should be a perfect fit for Goa. He has worked for three years with Manolo, so knows what is expected of him.” Emphasizing his flexibility, the source added, “He is also quite adept at playing on the wings or centrally and will provide plenty of options for the coach as Goa aims to end their ISL trophy drought.”
Notably, Yasir had previously spent a developmental year at Goa during the 2017-18 season, making his senior team debut at the Super Cup. His signing reinforces Goa’s commitment to recruiting proven domestic players, marking a strategic shift in their transfer policy following two years of non-qualification for the ISL.
Dheeraj Singh Shuts Down Exit Speculations: Firmly Committed to FC Goa
Amid swirling speculations, FC Goa’s goalkeeper, Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem, has quashed rumors of his departure from the club through a decisive Instagram story. The 23-year-old affirmed his dedication to FC Goa and urged fans to dismiss any hearsay regarding his potential exit.
Taking to his official Instagram handle, Dheeraj shared a story to set the record straight, stating, “I am not in discussion with any club about any contract. I am currently at FC Goa and doing my best to help the team do well. Please ignore rumors that you may have heard. I am staying with @fcgoaofficial.“
Dheeraj, a key player who was part of the Indian Under 17 squad during the 2017 FIFA Under 17 World Cup, joined FC Goa in January 2021. Despite having participated in 41 matches for the Gaurs, he has yet to make an appearance in the current edition of the ISL, despite FC Goa being the 2019-20 ISL League Shield winners.
FC Goa: A Strong Contender for ISL 2023-24 Title
Currently basking in red-hot form, the 2019 Indian Super Cup winners, FC Goa, have emerged as a formidable force in the ongoing 2023-24 Indian Super League (ISL) season. With an undefeated record in the first half, they firmly hold the second spot in the points table, trailing only behind league leaders Kerala Blasters with an impressive 24 points from 10 matches.
The consistent and stellar performance showcased by FC Goa positions them as strong contenders for the title in this edition of the tournament. Building on the momentum of their previous successes, the team led by Manolo Marquez is set to make a significant impact in the league.
Drawn in Group D, FC Goa faces stiff competition alongside defending champion Odisha FC, last year’s runners-up Bengaluru FC, and I League’s Inter Kashi FC. The latter secured their spot in the main event with a convincing 5-0 victory over Rajasthan United in the qualifier match.
As the anticipation builds among FC Goa’s passionate fanbase, there is a collective hope that the team will continue its dream run and possibly replicate the heroics of 2019. With eyes on the upcoming matches in Bhubaneshwar, supporters eagerly await the unfolding chapters of FC Goa’s journey in pursuit of ISL glory.
Sadaoui and Martinez Shine as FC Goa Triumphs Over Inter Kashi at the Kalinga Super Cup
FC Goa marked a triumphant start to their campaign with a 2-1 victory over I-League side Inter Kashi In the Kalinga Super Cup. Noah Sadaoui and Carlos Martinez were the heroes for the Gaurs, finding the net in the second half and setting the tone for a promising season.
The game kicked off with intensity, and despite an early opportunity for Inter Kashi’s Edmund Lalrindika in the 3rd minute, FC Goa’s goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh made a crucial save to deny the opposition. Notably, Singh, entrusted with the goalkeeping duties in place of Arshdeep Singh, showcased his skills in a rare appearance.
The first half belonged to FC Goa, with notable chances created by Sadaoui, Paulo Retre, and Boris Singh. Sadaoui, particularly lively on the left flank, exhibited quality and control over the ball. Inter Kashi’s captain, Arindam Bhattacharya, made crucial saves to keep the scores level.
The second half unfolded with early drama as Inter Kashi’s Anil Chawan found the net, only for the goal to be disallowed due to offside. FC Goa seized the moment in the 58th minute when Sadaoui, assisted by Brison Fernandes, clinically finished to break the deadlock.
Martinez extended the lead in the 66th minute, capitalizing on a precise cross from Sadaoui. Despite Inter Kashi’s Nikum Gyamar pulling one back with a superb strike in the 78th minute, FC Goa maintained their one-goal advantage, securing a vital win to kickstart their campaign.
With this triumph, FC Goa extends their unbeaten run to 11 matches across all competitions, underlining their prowess as a force to be reckoned with in the footballing arena.
