FC Goa vs NorthEast United FC – 3 key battles to watch out for

by Chittu Shetty November 30, 2020

FC Goa take on NorthEast United FC in an exciting clash at the fortress Fatorda Stadium in Margao as they aim to get their first win in the ISL 2020-21 campaign.

Head coach Juan Ferrando will be pumped with the spirit shown by his side over the past couple of matches. They had mounted a two-goal comeback against Bengaluru FC in their season opener. In the second fixture against Mumbai City FC, FC Goa were the dominant side in the middle of the pitch despite being a man down.

We take a look at three key battles that will shape up the Gaurs’  encounter against the Higlanders,

1. Ivan Gonzalez vs Kwesi Appiah

FC Goa’s centre-back pairing of Ivan Gonzalez and James Donachie have been quite sturdy in the two matches in the ISL so far. They have helmed the backline well, especially the Spaniard Ivan Gonzalez who has been a rock. His battle against NorthEast United FC’s lead striker Kwesi Appiah will be one to watch out for.

Kwesi Appiah has been on target for the Highlanders in both the matches. He has been dangerous in his movement in and around the box. He has hit form right from the get-go and will be a tough nut to deal with for the Goan defence.

2. Edu Bedia vs Federico Gallego

Edu Bedia is a mercurial midfielder who does a lion’s share of work all around the FC Goa midfield. With the ability to use his physicality well to almost bully his opponents, Edu also possesses the attacking threat whenever he is on the ball.

In somewhat of a similar role for the Highlanders, Federico Gallego has the responsibility to create good chances for the attackers up ahead. The battle between the two overseas medios will determine who dominates proceedings out in the middle. This one surely has box-office written all over it!

3. Igor Angulo vs Dylan Fox

FC Goa striker Igor Angulo made his mark in the ISL bagging two goals against former ISL champions Bengaluru FC in their opening clash. He was key to trigger the comeback after the Gaurs were reeling at 0-2 in the clash. He has shown glimpses of his brilliance in the attack and will be crucial for the Goan side to get goals on the board.

On the other end, NorthEast United FC’s centre-back Dylan Fox is slowly etching his name as one of the no-nonsense defenders in the entire Indian Super League. With his gritty style of defending, Fox makes life difficult for the attackers in the box and is a threat during set-piece situations as well. The battle between Angulo and Fox will be a crucial one that could end up shaping the final result of the match.

Also Read: FC Goa vs Mumbai City FC – Fans Voice their opinion on the game

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Also Read: Ferrando, Nus underline importance of taking control

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