SC East Bengal will face FC Goa on 6th January at Tilak Maidan Stadium. Talking about any team in Indian Super League, FC Goa have been one of the most consistent teams ever since the tournament’s inception. They have finished runners-up twice in 2015 & in 2018-19. Moreover, they have topped the league stage and won the first ever ISL League Winners Shield. They also became the first-ever Indian club to qualify for the AFC Champions League group stage. The Gaurs made the semi-finals in each of the last three seasons playing some excellent attacking football. Also they have the record of maximum wins in the tournament so far with 51 wins.
This year the Gaurs will be hoping to win the title under new coach Juan Ferrando who believes in the vision of attacking football. Among many success, A UEFA Pro License holder, Ferrando was awarded the award for ‘Best Coach’ in 2017-18 by the Greek Football Association for his work at Volos.
The management has given special focus on experience with good talent in mix in this season’s team. The biggest advantage for the team will be the tournament will be played in their home turf hence they are well acclimated to the conditions.
In forward line Ishan Pandita’s skills might give them an advantage along with Igor Angulo who has a good scoring record at Europe.Signing of winger-cum-forward, 28 year old Jorge Ortiz who have the versatility to play anywhere in the front will give the team an added dimension in the attack.
Spaniard Ivan Gonzalez signing will give advantage to The Gaur in defense line.
Spanish Edu Bedia who is an experience campaigner of the team will have to lead the team at midfield. The midfield has a strong mix of Indian and foreign talent.
The Signing of James Donachie (Centre Back) and Alberto Noguera (Midfield), will bring experience in the team.
Indian talents like Redeem Tlang (Right Winger), Phrangki Buam (Attacking Midfield), Sanson Pereira (Left Back), Makan Chote (Right Winger), Devendra Murgaokar (Forward) who signed for the Gaurs this season will bring much required balance in the team.
Our Ratings:
Defense: 9/10
Midfield: 8.5/10
Forward: 9/10
Total: 26.5/30
Foreigners: James Donachie (Centre Back), Alberto Noguera (Midfield), Ivan Gonzalez (Centre Back), Jorge Ortiz (Right Winger), Igor Angulo (Centre Forward), Edu Bedia (Central Midfield),
Notable Indian Players: Redeem Tlang (Right Winger), Phrangki Buam (Attacking Midfield), Sanson Pereira (Left Back), Seiminlen Doungel (Left Winger), Brandom Fernandes (Attacking Midfield)
Probable Emerging Indian Players: Ishan Pandita (Centre Forward), Devendra Murgaokar (Forward)
Source: FC Goa ISL Profile page
