ISL semi-final preview: Goa need goals as final berth awaits Delhi
FC Goa host Delhi Dynamos in the second leg of their semi-final tie in the Indian Super League (ISL) at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda tonight. Having beaten Goa 1-0 at Delhi last Friday, the Dynamos only need to avoid a defeat in the Gaurs’ backyard to enter the final of the tournament.
Robin Singh’s thumping header in the first leg remains the difference between the teams as the contest moves to the Fatorda. The first leg was built up as a fight between Delhi’s defence and Goa’s attack; however, the Gaurs played a counter-attacking game with the Dynamos enjoying possession. In all likelihood, we will see a reversal of tactics from both managers in the second leg tonight.
In the last meeting between the two teams at Fatorda in the opening round of ISL 2015, Goa emerged as 2-0 winners, thanks to first half goals from Mandar Rao Desai and Reinaldo. It was one of Goa’s three home wins this season as they scored 14 and conceded eight goals in their own backyard. Their only loss at home came against Chennaiyin FC, as they were hammered 0-4 with Stiven Mendoza scoring a hat trick.
FC Goa is facing problems upfront with their Brazilian striker Reinaldo ruled out of the crucial leg. The 36-year old, who has scored a total of seven goals in the league, including a hat trick, will be huge miss for the Goans. However, the home side will be happy to welcome back defender Luciano Sobrosa and striker Rafael Coelho for the all-important tie.
The Goans, usually employ a 3-5-2 formation with Jofre, Leo Moura and Jonatan Lucca controlling the midfield. With Reinaldo out, Zico will start with Dudu Omagbemi or Thongkhosiem Haokip in attack, with Goa needing a goal to keep the hope of a final berth. Romeo Fernandes and Mandar Rao Desai could start as wingbacks after Narayan Das and Pronay Halder struggled throughout the first leg.
Delhi Dynamos have a record of four wins and three defeats in their away trips, with late goals a constant element in their away victories. Delhi is unlikely to make any changes to their line-up as Roberto Carlos banks on defensive solidity to get over the line. The Pride will play a counter-attacking game by using Brazilian Gustavo Dos Santos as the spearhead. Delhi plays in a 4-4-1-1 formation with Florent Malouda as the creative force behind the attack.
Prediction
FC Goa 0-1 Delhi Dynamos
In all likelihood, the match will be a cagey affair with both teams hoping for a final berth. Goa will hope to have the support of a vociferous crowd at the Fatorda to break the Delhi defence. With late goals a continuous element of Delhi’s away trips, we except the Dynamos to nick the second leg 1-0 and to enter the finale.
