NIRAJ PRABHU
FATORDA
FC Goa have emerged as the favourites to clinch the title in the fifth edition of ISL, judging by their energetic performances in the successive emphatic victories over ATK and Kerala Blasters. The Gaurs have peaked at the right time when other contenders like Bengaluru FC and Mumbai City FC are losing their way.
The Gaurs’ attack looks as sharp as it can get while the newly found defensive stability with ISL record-equalling fifth clean sheet in a row achieved on Monday, is a bonus that makes Sergio Lobera’s boys the most compact team in the league.
While Kerala Blasters have struggled to get results all season, they had a decent side that caused a bit of a trouble to the hosts defence to start with. However, FC Goa quickly found their bearings and produced a dominant display. Once again, Jahouh and Bedia were outstanding in the central midfield while local ace Brandon also produced a fine performance for the third game in a row.
Jackichand has also run himself in a decent form while Coro is consistent with his goal-scoring run. However, the ISL’s leading striker would be disappointed not to have finished off a solo run after being released from left flank by an early long ball by Moroccan powerhouse Jahouh. Substitute Boumous coming on in second half is a treat to watch when he dances past rival defenders and puts the ball into the net as he did in this match.
While Naveen Kumar was hardly tested again at Fatorda, his compatriot in Kerala goal, Dheeraj Singh will be haunted by a schoolboy error that gifted a goal-scoring opportunity to Edu Bedia by not adopting safety-first approach and rather trying to keep the ball in play.
On tactical front, Lobera has found the perfect starting XI with Jahouh and Bedia manning the engine room with home-grown Lenny fitting in well, and his super-sub Boumous fitting the bill as the one to cash in on the tired legs. On the other hand, Nelo Vingada was only left hoping that his team would have luck and it would be an off-day for the home team. However, it was just that - a hope not reality.
