Indian Super League (ISL) football franchise FC Goa came from behind to claim a 2-2 draw against Brazilian side Rio Branco AC, in a friendly match on Espiritu Santo Island on Sunday.
Zico’s men were up against it after conceding twice during the first half. The first goal within the first 5 minutes after Denzil conceded a free-kick just outside the area and an opposition attacker netted with ease.
Just 3 minutes later and Zico had to bring on Luciano Sabrosa to replace an injured Gregory who went down with a muscle injury.
Zico’s men had an uphill struggle and then a swift counter-attack saw an opposition striker in a one-on-one against Laxmikant Kattimani and he duly netted to double the Brazilians’ lead, just on the stroke of half time.
After the break Zico made a few changes, bringing on Romeo Fernandes Julio Csar and Reinaldo which seemed to work as they fought their way back into the game.
Goa’s determination pulled off after Rafael Coelho, a former junior international with Brazil, pulled one back midway through the second half.
This was followed 6 minutes later by former Bayern Munich and Juventus defender Lucio who scored the equaliser on his second attempt after the initial shot was blocked.
Once again it came from a corner, the ball initially clearing fell to Sanjay who lobbed the ball over the defence superbly to Goa’s marquee player Lucio, who proved he still has the goods in him to score goals with some panache.
The team’s next pre-season friendly is on Thursday when they are due to play Brazilian heavyweight side CR Flamengo. The squad will then fly back to Goa on 25th September ahead of the opening ceremony of the third season of the Indian Super League in Guwahati on October 1.
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