FC Goa Can Complicate Delhi’s Path to Semis

DELHI:
Delhi Dynamos coach Gianluca Zambrotta is aware that it would be foolish to ignore FC Goa’s challenge in their quest for a semi-final berth just because they are at the bottom in Hero Indian Super League.
Delhi Dynamos were the most impressive side in the first phase of ISL but with three matches left to be played, they are placed fourth with 17 points from 11 matches and need a win against FC Goa to boost their confidence at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Delhi, on Sunday.
“If we win this game then Delhi will be in a good position to qualify for play-offs. I am not getting into the mathematical calculations, just preparing for this match and trying to win. Like always, we will strive to win,” said Zambrotta during the pre-match media interaction.
Delhi Dynamos have been strong at home this season and are the only side not to lose a home game. They were winless at home in their first three matches but Zambrotta’s side eventually gained momentum, winning two of their next three matches. The clash against FC Goa will b
e the last home game in the league stage for Delhi and Zambrotta knows his side must remain focused.
“At the moment, this is one of the most difficult game for us. It will be a mistake to think they are last. That will be a bad attitude. The players must stay focused and determined,” said Zambrotta, who still has to play two more away games against NorthEast United FC and Mumbai City FC.
FC Goa can mathematically still qualify for the semi-finals but the Goans have only a 0.001 percent chance of qualification. FC Goa coach Zico has already given up on his team’s chances after the 1-2 loss against Atletico de Kolkata at home but the Brazil legend said his players will approach the match with the same intensity.
“We have to play with the same intensity. We are professionals. When we go on the pitch, we must respect the jersey, the fans and the honour of our owner. I learnt this when I started playing football. We have to honour the jersey, always. We will give hundred percent,” said Zico.
FC Goa had lost 0-2 against Delhi at home and will again remain underdogs in the away clash. They have been poor defensively but have a healthy away record compared to their home performances, after scoring seven of their 11 points away and keeping two of their three clean sheets when playing away from home.
“This match is a different story. When we played Delhi (in our home match), we had to fight for points and take more risks. We don’t need to take risks now. The only difference is that we will field only those players who are hundred percent fit. The last game was very tiring,” said Zico.