Photo Courtesy: Twitter/@FCGoaOfficial
FC Goa are a side in the Indian Super League who have managed to end up in the playoffs of the competition three times in four years. They are still yet to win a title, but the attacking style of play The Gaurs adopt has brought them many fans. An exciting team to watch, FC Goa have the ability to demolish any defence in front of them if every single player in the team is functioning at the top of their game.
It is clear that the biggest strength FC Goa possesses is their incredible ability to score goals. The team is set-up in such a way that forces the other team to be cautious of how fast-paced the game will be. They also have retained the services of the top goal scorer of the ISL 2018/19 season in Ferran Corominas.
But, the Achilles Heel for the team has always been an unstable defence. They have addressed this issue by bringing in two new defenders in the squad. Another problem for the team is the fact that they don’t have the strongest Indian contingent of players within their roster. This can be a problem for the team in the business end of the season when injuries start lining up, and squad rotation is required.
Coach: Sergio Lobera
Stadium: Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium, Goa
The 35-year-old striker lit up the Indian Super League last season when he scored goals for fun. In the 20 appearances he made, he found the back of the net 18 times. Furthermore, he assisted five goals as well, showcasing completeness in his game.
Indian midfield maestro Jackichand Singh earned plaudits from his peers as well as critics for the ability he possesses last season. Now 26-years-old, it is expected that he will be getting a senior role in the national team as well while entering the prime years of his footballing career.
Runners Up (2015)
Goalkeepers: Lalthuammawia Ralte, Laxmikant Kattimani, Mohammad Nawaz
Defenders: Carlos Pena, Chinglensana Singh, Lalhmangaisanga, Mohamed Ali, Nirmal Chettri, Saviour Gama, Mourtada Fall, Seriton Fernandes
Midfielders: Miguel Palanca, Brandon Fernandes, Ahmed Jahouh, Edu Bedia, Hugo Boumous, Lenny Rodrigues, Mandar Rao Dessai, Imran Khan, Princeton Rebello, Jackichand Singh, Pratesh Shirodkar
Forwards: Ferran Corominas, Manvir Singh and Liston Colaco