Chiki and Sandesh Jhingan stand out as FC Goa beat Fortis 2-1 in AFC Challenge League
FC Goa defeated Fortis FC 2-1 at the Mohammed Al-Hamad Stadium in Hawally, Kuwait, in the first game of the second matchweek of the AFC Challenge League 2026-27 on Tuesday, October 20, with Chiki scoring the late winner and captain Sandesh Jhingan singled out for his defensive display.
Both teams entered the match needing a result after opening-week defeats: FC Goa had lost narrowly to Regar-TadAZ of Tajikistan and Fortis had been beaten 4-0 by Al-Qadsia of Kuwait, leaving both sides under pressure to keep knockout hopes alive in the competition.
Jorge Ortiz opened the scoring for Goa in the sixth minute after an assist from Udanta Singh, Fortis levelled through Rafayel Tudu in the 78th minute from a pass by Nigerian striker Chukwude, and Francis co Feuillassier supplied the pass that allowed Chiki to convert the 85th-minute winner for FC Goa.
Sandesh Jhingan, captaining Goa, was influential defensively, making crucial clearances and tackles and providing offensive runs during set pieces; the report described him as "everywhere tonight" and credited him with a strong overall defensive night for the Gaurs.
Goalkeeper Lara had a relatively calm match as Fortis produced few shots on target, the report noting a saved direct free kick from a Gabonese striker among his key interventions, while Sharma was criticised for his positioning when Fortis scored their equaliser.
On the flanks, Udanta Singh supplied the early assist and was a constant outlet from the right; Ronney’s combination play with Udanta repeatedly penetrated Fortis’ defence, and Harsh Patre was praised for defensive solidity and link-up play with Gaonkar before Patre was substituted at half-time for Franchu.
Several substitutions featured in the second half: Jorge Ortiz was replaced by KC Malsawmsanga after a tiring shift, Gaonkar was forced off with Haobam Singh coming on, Carvalho was introduced in the 89th minute to protect the lead, and Akash Singh entered late without notable impact; the report also highlighted Pa Babou’s chances that were dealt with by Zalaya, whose positioning was questioned after the equaliser.
FC Goa registered the 1-2 victory over Fortis FC of Bangladesh in the AFC Challenge League 2026-27 on Tuesday, October 20, with Jorge Ortiz and Chiki on the scoresheet for the Gaurs.
