ISL 2017, Match 12: FC Goa vs Bengaluru FC, Predicted XI
After playing two away games, FC Goa are ready to host the undefeated Bengaluru FC in their first home game of ISL 2017 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa. FC Goa had a mixed start to this season so far and facing one of the most balanced units in their first home game.
After winning their opening fixture against Chennaiyin FC, FC Goa are coming home on the back of a 2-1 defeat against the Mumbai City FC and will surely look to kick-start their home campaign with a thumping victory over the table toppers.
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On the other side, Bengaluru FC look like the most balanced side of this competition and a team to beat in ISL 2017. They have conceded just 1 goal in two games and that too was through a spot kick. The Blues will surely look to carry on their winning momentum from home in their first away game of this season.
Let’s see what both sides have to offer in their second game of the ISL 2017.
FC Goa
The Goan head coach Sergio Lobera is pretty much aware of Bengaluru FC’s attacking prowess and definitely has to strengthen his defence to make a winning start at home. However, he has promised to showcase some brilliant football to the home fans to entertain them.
He is likely to field his side in a balanced 4-4-1-1 formation, which can easily transform into an attack-heavy 4-3-3 with Mandar shifting in wings alongside Lanzarote and Coro.
FC Goa Probable Starting XI (4-4-1-1): Kattimani, Narayan, Ali, Chinglensana, Fernandes, Mandar, Arana, Edu Bedia, Ahmed, Lanzarote, Corominas.
Bengaluru FC
The Blues head coach Roca is pretty much aware of the mindset of his opponent coach Sergio Lobera from his Barcelona days. Despite coming on the back of back-to-back victories at home, he admits to the pressure of playing away from home in different conditions.
The Spaniard coach doesn’t seem to be in the mood to make any changes in the starting XI. He is most likely to continue with the 3-4-3 formation, which provides him more width on the flanks. However, Khabra will be playing more as a defensive midfielder to keep the balance between attack and defence.
Bengaluru FC Probable Starting XI (3-4-3): Gurpreet, Bheke, Juan, Johnson, Khabra, Lenny, Paartalu, Eduardo, Udanta, Chhetri, Miku.
Prediction:
FC Goa 0-2 Bengaluru FC
With the kind of football Bengaluru have showcased so far, there is no doubt about them continuing their winning momentum away from home. FC Goa will have to work really hard to find their first goal at home.