The first match was not up to the mark as far as finishing is concerned. But the other sectors were pretty amazing mainly out possession based quick passing. The next match is against Mumbai City FC. Before the match, EBRPFC brings you a brief preview, tactics and probable XI of both the teams:
SC EASTBENGAL
Strength: The first match has already given the team confidence, as this was their first ever competitive match. From the first match, the talking points regarding our strength is undoubtedly our midfield, and presence of Danny Fox in defence. Although Debjit conceded a couple of goals, he played pretty amazing including that super save off a point-blank range shot from Javi Hernandez.
Weakness: The biggest concern for our coach is the lack of a clinical finisher. The midfield created many opportunities, but those weren’t enough to break the deadlock. The form of Balwant would be under scrutiny, and Jeje might not be match fit. Our 6th foreigner Aaron might be an utility option, but won’t be a long time replacement.
Predicted XI: (4-2-3-1) Debjit (GK), Daniel Fox, Scott Neville, Gurtej Singh, Narayan Das, Loken Meetei, Matti Steinmann, Surchandra Singh, Anthony Pilkington, Jacques Maghoma and Jeje.
MUMBAI CITY FC
Strength: Mumbai is a team that likes to play possession based football. Having Amrinder in goal gives keeps them an edge ahead in every game. Presence of experienced Farukh Choudhary and Rowlin Borges provides extra stability in midfield. In both of their games, they were extremely comfortable with the ball, and off the ball too. They would keep East Bengal’s defence under pressure
Weaknesses: Much like East Bengal, they too have problem in front of the goal. In the first match against Northeast, they couldn’t register even a single shot on target. Against Goa, they could only manage two shots on target among 14 shots taken, the goal coming through a penalty.
Predicted XI: (4-2-3-1) Amrinder Singh (GK), Mandar Rao, Sarthak Golui, Fall, Amey Ranawade, Rowlin Borges, Hernan, Farukh Choudhury, Boumous, Goddard and Adam La Fondre
