FC Goa let Al Khaleej off the hook

Panaji: FC Goa squandered a 2-0 lead, allowing UAE club Al Khaleej to fight back and draw their first pre-ISL season friendly match 2-2 at the Dubai Sports City.

FC Goa scored two brilliant goals through Joffre and Reinaldo which were later equalised by Al Khaleej.

All the Indian ISL franchise's new signings, as well as the latest editions to the club, were fielded in the game against the spirited home team, said a media release today.

FC Goa's Head Coach Zico was pleased with his team's show in their opening practice game.

"I'm happy with the way the team played. After a week of training it was nice to see the boys play at a high level and no injuries from our first game. We now look forward to our next game," the Brazilian football legend said.

The squad is scheduled to train in Dubai until September 20, after which the Zico-managed team would be back in Goa for the final phase of training at the Tilak Maidan Ground in Vasco before the season starts, the release added.

FC Goa are now scheduled to play four more friendlies on September 15, 16, 19 and 20.

FC Goa would open their campaign in the ISL when they clash with Delhi Dynamos FC in a home game on October 4 at the Fatorda stadium in Margao