Hero ISL 2022-23: Bedia’s free kick in the final minute for FC Goa sinks East Bengal 2-1

FC Goa gained an early lead in the seventh minute, courtesy Brandon Fernandes’ goal through a superb Alvaro Vasquez assist to open their season in some style.

Alex Lima came close to scoring the equalizer four minutes later only to find his free kick land at the side of the nets. East Bengal though were relentless in their efforts and continued an attacking game throughout the first half.

East Bengal fought hard for chances but were constantly denied entry into the box as they went in to the half-time with a goal down.

Bedia was exceptional in his attack for FC Goa, especially in the second half of the game as he created a few chances that had East Bengal keeper Kamaljit on his toes.

Lima once again showed up in the 57th minute for East Bengal after VP Suhar initiated a counter-attack from the right but the wait still continued.

While the men in red and yellow pushed hard for the equalizer with some smart play, they finally got one as Suhair was brought by FC Goa goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh. Cleiton Silva calmly converted the penalty under pressure in the 64th minute of the game.

With four minutes to go, Mahesh raised some hopes for East Bengal as he put the ball into the box only to see it negotiated away by FC Goa defenders.

However, a fourth-minute stoppage-time goal from Bedia crashed the home side’s hopes of playing out a draw as they are yet to make a mark on the points table.

Fernandes was subbed for Devendra Murgaokar with five minutes left on the clock as the match was heading towards an exciting draw before Bedia had other plans.

EBFC play their third fixture at the Indira Gandhi National Stadium as they face NorthEast United on October 20 in a bid to open their account on the points table.