Jamshedpur FC host FC Goa in Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on Sunday. This is perhaps the match with the most at stake so far with the winner assured the last semifinal berth of the season. The Gaurs, who are a point ahead of their opponents can go through with a draw but will be wary of what’s certain to be a tough away fixture. On the other hand, anything less than a win would not suffice for Jamshedpur as they look to cement their top four status.
HEAD TO HEAD
Jamshedpur FC 0–1 FC Goa (0 Draws)
KEY PLAYERS
Izu Azuka (Jamshedpur FC)
The Nigerian has been a key attacking player for his team. He has appeared in all but one of their matches and has always kept the opposition defence on their toes with his pace and strength. An opportunistic striker and a clinical finisher, Azuka has three goals as well as an assist to his name and will look to inspire his team to a home win.
Ahmed Jahouh (FC Goa)
The former Moroccan international has been one of the most influential players for the Gaurs, pulling the strings from midfield. Possessing good speed and a knack for picking out incisive passes, Jahouh has been the initiator of countless attacks. He has a couple of assists to his name and will have to be at his best away to Jamshedpur.
POTENTIAL STARTING LINEUPS
Jamshedpur FC
Steve Coppell may use a 4-2-3-1 formation that provides enough options in the middle and the flanks.
Goalkeeper: Subrata Paul
Defenders: Souvik Chakrabarti, Anas Edathodika, Tiri, Shouvik Ghosh
Midfielders: Mehtab Hossain, Memo, Wellington Priori, Jerry Mawihmingthanga, Trindade Goncalves
Forward: Izu Azuka
FC Goa
Sergio Lobera will most likely go with a 4-2-3-1 formation as well to maximise the width of the pitch as Goa look to seal a semis berth.
Goalkeeper: Naveen Kumar
Defenders: Narayan Das, Bruno Pinheiro, Sergio Juste, Mohamed Ali
Midfielders: Hugo Boumous, Brandon Fernandes, Pronay Halder, Mandar Rao Dessai, Manuel Lanzarote
Forward: Ferran Corominas
KEY STAT
– Goa have scored the highest number of goals this season (39), while Jamshedpur have conceded the least (15)
PREVIOUS ENCOUNTER
FC Goa 2–1 Jamshedpur FC (11th January 2018 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa)
FORM GUIDE (Last five encounters)
Jamshedpur FC: L D W W W
FC Goa: W W D L L