FC Goa to Make Late Push for Semi-final Berth

PANAJI:
After a week long hiatus, FC Goa continue their bid for a semi-final spot in the third season of the Hero Indian Super League. Currently lying at the bottom of the table with 11 points in 11 games, the Gaurs have a lot of work ahead of them in order to make it to the knockout round. FC Goa must win all three of their remaining games to have any hope of qualifying and this run of games will start with a home encounter against Atletico de Kolkata. The Bengal side have suffered wavering form during the tournament and after their draw with Chennaiyin FC in their previous encounter, they will be looking for maximum points against the Gaurs, a team they have not lost to in the tournament. For FC Goa, they will have to keep history aside and go out to get the win. Head coach Zico’s attacking philosophy will have to be adhered to at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, if the Gaurs are to qualify.
Laxmikant Kattimani has been one of the top performers for the franchise after he made a comeback into the squad. His form will be vital for the home side and he will be looking to keep a clean sheet. In defence, Rafael Dumas is expected to return to the starting line up along side skipper Gregory Arnolin. Luciano Sobrosa who also served a suspension is available for selection. The Brazilian employed a 4-2-3-1 formation against Mumbai City FC and he will be tempted to continue with it after a good display. Ke
enan Almeida and Debabrata Roy could start as full backs like they did in the previous game.
In midfield, Richarlyson Barbosa has been a standout performer for the club this season and he will be a sure starter. Sanjay Balmuchu has made numerous appearances this season and has doubled up as a defender and defensive midfielder. His versatility may tempt Zico to start him in the middle as well. With players returning from injury and with a result necessary, Zico may also use Trindade Goncalves due to his ability to carry the ball forward. Indian wingers Romeo Fernandes and Mandar Rao Dessai are likely to start on the right and left respectively. With veteran Spaniard Joffre cleared of injury concerns, he will throw his name into the hat for a starting berth and his creativity will be required for Rafael Coelho to add to his goal tally. The Brazilian striker has toiled hard during the tournament and will want to make himself a contender for the Golde Boot. Indian target man Robin Singh has had a good run in the squad as well and is also another option to start.
Atletico de Kolkata’s Canadian striker Iain Hume has begun to find his feet in the tournament and the defence will have to be on top of their game to keep him quiet. South African winger Sameehg Doutie who has netted three times for the franchise against FC Goa is another wily player. With both teams playing an attacking brand of football, this promises to be an entertaining game. This fixture has always produced goals and spectators and fans can expect more of the same.