PANJIM:
FC Goa’s quest for silverware continues with a quarterfinal tie against fellow Indian Super League side, Jamshedpur FC. The Gaurs take on the men of steel at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on 12th April 2019 with a spot in the semi-finals at stake. Derrick Pereira’s charges stormed into the quarterfinals after dispatching ATK in the previous round with ease.
ISL top scorer Ferran Corominas opened the scoring for the Goan side in the first period, but ATK skipper Robbie Keane brought his side back on level terms early in the second half. The Goans however, hit the gas and raced away with the tie through Hugo Boumous and a first goal in an FC Goa jersey for Goan winger Brandon Fernandes. The youngster displayed superb form to pick up the Hero of the match award and will be looking to keep that form going against Steve Coppell’s side.
The Goans completed the double over the men of steel in the ISL, winning 2-1 in front of their home fans and then romping to an emphatic 3-0 win away to book their spot in the semi-finals of the Indian Super League. With history on their side, the Gaurs will be looking for their third consecutive victory against Jamshedpur and make the semi-finals of the Hero Super Cup in the process.
Skipper Laxmikant Kattimani looks set to make a comeback to the team and will guard the sticks for the clash against Jamshedpur. For the first time this season, FC Goa started with two foreign players at centre-half as Bruno Pinheiro and Sergio Juste joined forces. It looks likely that they will reprise their roles for the quarter-finals. Seriton Fernandes and Narayan Das will start in the full-back positions.
The midfield pivot of Pronay Halder and Edu Bedia were sensational against ATK and they will start together once again. Hugo Boumous, playing in the attacking midfield position got his name on the scoresheet once again and showed some flashes of brilliance and good chemistry with Coro who will start up front. Mandar Rao Dessai and Brandon Fernandes will start on the wings.
Coach Derrick Pereira was in confident mood ahead of the tie, saying, “The atmosphere in the dressing room is great. The team is united and up for the competition. There are a few niggles here and there but the important thing is that everyone is happy and wants to go out there and get the best possible result tomorrow.”
