In a dramatic and nerve-wracking finale at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, FC Goa etched their name in history by winning the AIFF Super Cup for a record third time. The Gaurs overcame East Bengal FC 6-5 in a sudden-death penalty shootout on Sunday, December 8, 2024, to successfully defend their crown and, crucially, book a coveted spot in next season's AFC Champions League 2.
A Night of High Drama and Goalkeeping Heroics
The summit clash between two of India's top clubs was a tense, cagey affair that failed to produce a goal in regulation time or the subsequent 30 minutes of extra time. Both sides created chances but were thwarted by resolute defending and excellent goalkeeping. East Bengal's Prabhsukhan Singh Gill and FC Goa's Hrithik Tiwari pulled off crucial saves to keep the scoreline blank.
East Bengal thought they had broken the deadlock in the 74th minute when PV Vishnu's powerful shot forced a fumble from Tiwari. The ball looped dangerously towards the goal line, but the Goa keeper showed remarkable presence of mind to slap it away with an outstretched hand, leaving the East Bengal contingent appealing in vain.
The Shootout Saga and Sudden-Death Decider
With the match destined to be decided from the spot, the initial penalty shootout ended deadlocked at 4-4, pushing the final into a sudden-death scenario. The pressure was immense as both teams converted their first attempts in the sudden-death round. Udanta Singh scored for FC Goa, while substitute Hamid Ahadad kept East Bengal alive.
The decisive moment arrived when East Bengal's PV Vishnu missed his spot-kick, paving the way for FC Goa's Sahil Tavora to step up and coolly slot home the winning penalty. The victory sparked wild celebrations among the Goa players and staff, marking a monumental achievement for coach Manolo Marquez and his squad.
Historic Triumph and Continental Reward
This victory is monumental for FC Goa on multiple fronts. They have become the first team ever to successfully defend the Super Cup title. Furthermore, by lifting the trophy for the third time, they have extended their own record as the most successful club in the tournament's history.
The most significant prize, however, is qualification for the AFC Champions League 2, Asia's second-tier club competition. This provides FC Goa with a platform to represent Indian football on the continental stage, offering invaluable experience and exposure. The triumph caps off a brilliant campaign for the Gaurs, who showcased resilience and nerve under extreme pressure to secure silverware and a historic continental berth.
