FC Goa vs SC East Bengal – 3 key player battles to watch out for

by Chittu Shetty January 5, 2021

The Indian Super League is near the midway stage as the competition heats up and favorites emerge for the playoffs spots.

FC Goa are all set to take on the ISL newcomers SC East Bengal at the Tilak Maidan in Vasco Da Gama, Goa. After nine matches played by the Gaurs so far in the ISL, they are placed on the third spot in the standings with 14 points in their tally.

In the last five matches, FC Goa has won three establishing themselves as one of the top playoffs contenders at the halfway mark.

With the up and rising East Bengal up next, we take a look at three key battles for the Gaurs at the Tilak Maidan.

1. Brandon Fernandes vs Anthony Pilkington

Two creative midfield forces in the middle of the park for their respective sides, East Bengal’s Anthony Pilkington and Brandon Fernandes will play key roles.

The Irishman has been a revelation for the Red and Golds playing in a very attacking role. His relentless running and ability to find the right passes has been a huge bonus for the East Bengal side. With a goal to his name in the last game, Pilkington can be a threat whenever he enters the opposition box.

On the other side, Brandon Fernandes is widely known as one of the most creative midfielders in the Indian Super League currently. With his ability to take on opposition defenders and find the right pass at the right moment, Fernandes is an influential player in the FC Goa midfield.

2. James Donachie vs Scott Neville

Two Australian centre-backs are tasked with helming the backline of their teams. Both of them have had contrasting results so far in the league. However, their performances have been fairly consistent so far.

Scott Neville is a no-nonsense defender playing for the SC East Bengal side and forms a partnership in their backline with Danny Fox. The Red and Golds have had a tough time containing the ISL attacks but have looked good in recent encounters. Neville can be a threat from set pieces as well with his physical presence in the box. For FC Goa, James Donachie plays a similar role and will be tasked with handling the East Bengal attacking force especially new recruit Bright Enobhakare, who looked quite lively and scored a goal in his maiden appearance. Donachie is tall, sturdy defender who has formed a great partnership with Spaniard Ivan Gonzalez in the Goa backline.

3. Igor Angulo vs Jacques Maghoma

Igor Angulo has emerged as a stellar replacement for former FC Goa striker Ferran Corominas. With 9 goals in as many matches, Angulo has quickly established himself as one of the most lethal attackers in the ISL. With his movement around the box and the goal-threat from aerial duels as well, Angulo will be a handy customer to deal with for the East Bengal defence especially in the dying moments of the game when the Spaniard has been scoring in last few games.

Meanwhile, East Bengal also have a physical and strong attacker on their midfield in the form of Jacques Maghoma. The overseas import has been one of the most consistent and impressive performers for the Kolkata giants racking up few goals in his debut ISL campaign. We can expect a good clash on our hands when these two attacking forces clash midweek.

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