The Gaurs are set to be unleashed on the Dynamos for the opening Hero Indian Super League (HISL) clash in Goa

by Prajkta Tagelly October 4, 2015

Panaji, 3 October 2015: The Hero Indian Super League (HISL) 2 is waiting to set stage in Goa with FC Goa playing hosts to Delhi Dynamos FC in their first fixture of the season at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium in Fatorda, Goa, on Sunday.

After losing four of their first six matches, FC Goa under the tutelage of Brazilian legend Zico made an incredible turnaround in the league to finish second in the group stage to qualify for the semi-finals wherein they were beaten by eventual champions Atletico de Kolkata in via a penalty shootout.

This season, Zico has handpicked Lucio as his marquee player and has a host of other Brazilians which account for seven players and besides five from the coaching staff.

However, the former Flamengo legend believes that the talk about there being as many of his compatriots should stop being the talk.

“This year in particular I’m hearing so many remarks regarding Brazilian players and Brazilian team and I don’t understand why we have such comments from everybody over and over again,” Zico continued.

“We should avoid talking about nationality and about the Brazilian brand and start thinking about the whole team and think only about FC Goa because we should acknowledge the presence of other nationalities and the Indian players who contribute to the team.”

Goa’s pre-season in Dubai was a fairly successful tour with a 2-1 win over Al Shabab, two draws against Al Khaleej (2-2) and Ajman Club (1-1) while facing a lone 4-2 defeat to Hatta Club. On their return, FC Goa beat Dempo SC 3-1.

Zico has a full squad at his disposal with no injury concerns as compared to their opponents who have a headache over the selection of a goalkeeper.

Delhi Dynamos’ preparations were a mixed bag of results including two wins over Varberg BoIS (3-1) and Skene IF (3-2) in Sweden wherein they also experienced a 7-2 losing experience against BK Hacken. They concluded their pre-season with a goalless draw against Danish club FC Vestsjaelland.

For the Dynamos’ marquee player-manager Roberto Carlos, it’s a battle between student and pupil.

“It’s going to be a contest between a student and a teacher and also a father and a son. I know and have worked with Zico in my past years in my time in Turkey for Fenerbache. I look back at those times as one of the greatest both personally and professionally,” commented the former Real Madrid star.

No indications of who will start have been made by the two coaches but expect a lot of fireworks when the likes of Florent Malouda takes on Lucio or when the Goan franchise’s attacking prowess go up against Delhi’s defense that could include Carlos himself.