Goa, March 26: Sporting Clube de Goa remains in contention for a top spot in the ongoing AIFF I-League 2, showing resilience through a series of hard-fought matches.
Despite encountering obstacles, the team has consistently delivered strong performances, both at home and away. On March 2, Sporting came close to securing their first away victory of the season but were denied by a last-minute equalizer in their 1-1 draw against Sports Academy Tirur. Kunal Kundaikar’s first-half goal had given the visitors a valuable lead, but a late header in stoppage time from the hosts saw the points shared. Despite the setback, Sporting’s solid display showed their ability to control games and fight for results.
Ronaldo Oliveira, who leads the attack as a dynamic forward and one of the club’s top goal scorers, says, ‘ This is my first season with the club and it’s truly an honor to play for this club and contribute to getting it back to where it belongs. The team plays a key role – without their support, you can’t score unless it’s individual brilliance,”
Back on home soil on March 7, Sporting Clube de Goa maintained their study defense at Bambolim Stadium with a goalless draw against FC Bengaluru United. Though both sides struggled to find the back of the net, Sporting’s defense was resolute, with key saves from goalkeeper Abhimanyu Singh and crucial interceptions from the defensive line. The team continued to show their mettle, though they were unable to break the deadlock in a tightly contested match.
Sporting bounced back with a crucial 1-0 victory over Chanmari FC on March 12. In a hard-fought battle, Biswa Darjee’s late header in the dying moments of the game secured the three points for the team. This victory extended their winning streak and strengthened their position in the standings.
“After securing back-to-back home wins, the team has laid a strong foundation, and I’m confident they’re ready to carry this momentum forward and climb to the top,” said head coach Armando Colaco, praising the team’s energy and commitment in training.
On March 17, Sporting secured another vital win, defeating KLSA 1-0. Doyal Alves’ clinical finish just before halftime proved to be the difference as the team extended their momentum. Though they missed several opportunities, Sporting’s defense stood strong, and they managed to maintain their lead until the final whistle.
In their most recent match on March 20, Sporting Clube de Goa extended their unbeaten home run with a 1-1 draw against Diamond Harbour FC. Despite falling behind early due to an unfortunate own goal, captain Dattaraj Gaonkar responded with an equalizer. Even with the visitors reduced to 10 men, Sporting Clube remained resolute, demonstrating their defensive solidity and tactical acumen, while upholding their impressive home record in front of their dedicated supporters.
Sporting now sits with 19 points from 11 matches, remaining firmly in contention as they continue to push for a playoff spot. Next, Sporting Clube de Goa will aim to build on this momentum as they prepare to face United Sports Club in their upcoming fixture.
