FC Goa midfielder Borja Herrera expressed his gratitude towards East Bengal FC fans after scoring a hat-trick against his former side to lead the Gaurs to their first victory in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season.

The Spaniard was absolutely at his very best against the Red and Gold Brigade, leading his team from the front. Herrera scored twice in the opening half and scored once in the latter half to complete his first ISL hat-trick.

After the game, Herrera, who was named Player of the Match in Kolkata, caught up with indiansuperleague.com, where he shared his emotions about playing against East Bengal FC in Kolkata.

“It’s special to play against East Bengal FC. I like these fans a lot because they give me very good support, and I feel very good playing here with East Bengal FC and now with FC Goa,” Herrera said.

The Gaurs failed to secure a win in their opening fixtures, where they lost against Jamshedpur FC in their opener and shared spoils against Mohammedan Sporting Club later on. Herrera's heroics in Kolkata meant it was the first three points for FC Goa in the ISL 2024-25 season. Herrera wants to build on his performance and get positive results in the upcoming matches for the Gaurs.

Sharing the importance of this victory, the Spanish midfielder stated,

“It’s very important for us (to get the win). We got bad results in the first two games. We have to keep going and continue in the same way.”

“How I am playing with FC Goa, I am very happy with it. I have to continue this,” he said.

Herrera displayed a commanding performance throughout the match, orchestrating FC Goa’s offensive moves with his agile movements and control of the ball. FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez substituted the goalscorer in the 84th minute as he brought in Ayush Chhetri to add fresh legs in the midfield.

The East Bengal FC supporters gave a standing ovation and round of applause when Herrera left the pitch after his heroic performance.

While quizzed about how he was feeling when the home fans were chanting his name, Herrera remarked,

“Yeah, I feel a little bit (nostalgic). I told you; I respect this club (East Bengal FC) and the fans too much. They gave me a lot of support.”

“I felt very good in my time here with East Bengal FC. I can only say ‘Thank you’ to them for this and goodbye,” he continued.

Herrera showed his love and affection for the Red and Gold Brigade as he didn’t celebrate any of his goals and expressed thankfulness towards his former club. 

“I feel very happy (to meet with old friends). For this reason, I didn't celebrate my goals because I respect the fans a lot,” he revealed.

“They support me a lot and continuously send me messages. I’m very happy to play here."

Related tags:

FC GoaEast Bengal FC2024-2025 Borja Herrera