Manjeri: Beevan D’Mello’s 88th minute strike helped Sporting Clube de Goa keep their Federation Cup knockout stage hopes alive as they defeated defending champions East Bengal 2-1 in a Group B match here on Saturday.
Finishing woes were a major problem for East Bengal as their forwards failed to utilise a flurry of chances while Sporting Clube de Goa attacks showed more accuracy in their infrequent attacks.
The opening goal came in the 18th minute when Rowlin Borges took possession from the midfield and passed to D’Mello, who was positioned on the left wing. Receiving the ball, he made a quick run and sent a brilliant cross to Victorino Fernandes, who netted with a low header.
East Bengal recovered from the early setback and started to play a better gamer. Their Japanese forward Ryuji Sueoka had the first chance on goal but failed to connect on a header from Moga.
Moga, in the very next minute, almost leveled as he collected an unexpected pass from deep but the Sudanese striker fluffed the chance with just the goalie in front.
Day’s results
Sporting Goa 2 East Bengal 1; Shillong Lajong 0 Mohun Bagan 6; Mumbai FC 1 Salgaocar 2; Rangdajied United 1 Bengaluru FC 1
