FC Goa vs Jamshedpur FC – 3 Key Player Battles to watch out for

by Suchit Halder December 22, 2020

FC Goa will lock horns against Jamshedpur FC in the final match in the Indian Super League before the mini Christmas break. We take a look at three key battles on the pitch that can shape the encounter at the Tilak Maidan.

FC Goa are on a run of two consecutive defeats against ATK Mohun Bagan and Chennaiyin FC losing out in single goal margins. Before those two losses, FC Goa had picked up their first two wins of the competition over Kerala Blasters FC and Odisha FC.

On the other hand, Jamshedpur FC come into this clash on the back of a six-match unbeaten streak. After the loss in their ISL opener against Chennaiyin FC, the Red Miners have grown from strength to strength winning two and drawing four matches.

We take a look at three key battles on the pitch that will shape the encounter at the Tilak Maidan.

1. Igor Angulo vs Nerijus Valskis

The two sides have two of the most lethal striker forces in their attack with the Spaniard Igor Angulo and Lithuanian Nerijus Valskis marshalling the frontline. Both of them have racked up six goals for their team with their goal poaching ability making them a threat around the box. The two overseas signings have established themselves as the frontrunners for the ISL Golden Boot award.

Igor Angulo has not scored in the last two encounters whereas Valskis blanked in the Red Miners’ previous match. The form of the two forwards will play a big role in determining which side comes out on top.

2. Jorge Ortiz Mendoza vs Aitor Monroy

A battle of the midfielders, Jorge Ortiz Mendoza and Aitor Monroy are two creative sources for their respective teams. Mendoza even got himself on the scoresheet in the loss against Chennaiyin FC and has started off well in his debut ISL campaign. The Spaniard is a vital player in the midfield and goes into dangerous positions to threaten the opposition defence.

Aitor Monroy served a suspension after being sent off against league leaders Mumbai City FC. However, he will be back for the clash against the Gaurs and will be key for the Red Miners. He has the ability to create chances with key passes and also takes the setpieces for Jamshedpur FC.

3. Saviour Gama vs Jackichand Singh

Youngster Saviour Gama and former Gaur Jackichand Singh, both have operated on the flanks for their teams with great promise so far. With their speed and tenacity, they have kept the opposition defence on their toes.

Gama has been used as a left wide back by Juan Ferrando to utilize his pace and crossing ability into the boxes. He has done fairly well in the defensive duties for his team. For Jamshedpur, Jackichand has been constant threat with his penchant for delivering those dangerous crosses in the attack. The former Gaur now with Red miners could turn out to be a thorn for Juan Ferrando side. Both wingers will be cruical for their team’s success and it will be an interesting battle to watch.

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