PANAJI
After 19 games of their Indian Super League (ISL) campaign, the final 90 minutes of the league phase on Sunday will decide if FC Goa can keep their dream of winning a maiden title alive.
The Gaurs are a regular feature in the ISL playoffs, but with a new coach and a revamped team, they had to fight all the way to stay in contention for a semi-finals berth this season. And in the final game of the league phase at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, FC Goa needs a point against Hyderabad FC to seal the last available playoffs berth.
Given the tumultuous build-up to their season after most of the key players followed former coach Sergio Lobera at his new team Mumbai City, Juan Ferrando's men have produced a creditable performance in the edition held in Goa under the shadow of the coronavirus pandemic. However, it will all come to a nought if FC Goa lose against Hyderabad “ the most impressive team of the season.
FC Goa have been one of the most feared sides in the competition and their attacking prowess has earned them crucial points. However, their defensive abilities are questionable with the club conceding 23 goals.
The Gaurs are on a 12-match unbeaten run and scoring isn’t a problem for Ferrando's side. FC Goa have made a habit of scoring late in games and have grabbed crucial points this way. And Ferrando hopes to carry on with the same plan.
“We want to play in attack (mode) because we need to win. We have the same plan. If we are winning 1-0, our mentality will be to get the second goal. If they score against us, we go to get the goal to make it 1-1 and then go to score the second. I am happy and with this mentality, it’s possible to improve this team,” Ferrando said.
On the other hand, Hyderabad would need to go all out against the Gaurs as they need nothing less than three points to remain in the competition and join ATK Mohun Bagan, Mumbai City aand NorthEastUnited in the last-four.
