[Watch] FC Goa's Lalthangliana’s lightning-quick opening strike against Tribhuvan Army in Durand Cup 2024

The young Manipuri forward has scored twice in two appearances for FC Goa in the competition.

FC Goa managed to nick their second successive win in the Durand Cup with a 2-1 victory over Tribhuvan Army FT (TAFT) on Thursday. Despite fielding youth team players, the young Gaurs showcased maturity as they held the Nepali side back and went to the top of Group F.

Israil Gurung was elated at his side picking up two successive wins but their primary attraction was 20-year-old attacker Lalthangliana. The youngster has notched a goal in both of his outings with the club in the competition.

In the game against Tribhuvan Army, Lalthangliana broke the deadlock with a rapid run amidst swathes of opposition players to latch onto a well-weighted pass from Vellington Fernandes and a crisp strike into the bottom corner. The attacking midfielder showed promise as a natural striker, with his identification of space and expert movement in the first minute of the game.

Another look at Lalthangliana’s lightening quick opening strike at our last #IndianOilDurandCup game! 🔥🤟🏻🎯 pic.twitter.com/QKHEQV8Y8r

— FC Goa (@FCGoaOfficial) August 10, 2024

The Gaurs escaped a goal scare narrowly sometime after, as TAFT’s equalizer was ruled offside. However, at the half-hour mark, they also had a penalty claim waived off mysteriously, as Akash Oraow’s cross seemed to hit the flailing hand of a defender in the box.

After the break, impressive left-back Sitroy Carvalho turned in a loose ball from a corner with a deft striker-esque touch. At 50 minutes, FC Goa’s young side had a comfortable two-goal cushion.

TAFT striker Jimba made amends for his ruled-out strike with a blockbuster finish in the 66th minute to pull one back for his team. Four minutes later goal scorer Sitroy was sent off after his second yellow of the night. 

FC Goa kept Tribhuvan Army at bay for another half an hour with only 10 men at their disposal before wrapping up an impressive win with all three points in the bag. The Gaurs will next face Shillong Lajong on 17th August in a group-stage topper decider.

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