PANJIM: Football lovers in Goa are in for a pre-Christmas treat. India’s biggest soccer final will be happening in the State, just five days before Christmas. Football Sports Development Ltd – promoters of the Indian Super League (ISL) – announced that the finals of the 2015 season will be held at the Fatorda stadium on December 20, 2015.
The decision was taken given Goa’s tryst with football and because the State is known for producing exciting footballers, many of whom are currently playing for various ISL clubs.
Football Sports Development Limited Founder and Chairperson Nita Ambani said, “We felt it would be apt to award the ISL 2015 final to Goa as an ode to the State’s passion for football. Fun-loving, football-crazy Goa will be a perfect destination for Indian football’s greatest party. Indian Super League is delighted to offer an exciting blend of football and festive spirit in celebration of the beautiful game.”
The second season of the ISL is scheduled to kick off on October 3 with the opening match between defending champions Atletico de Kolkata and Chennaiyin FC in Chennai.
FC Goa plays its first match in Goa on October 4 versus the Delhi Dynamos. The Goa team is being coached by legendary Brazilian footballer Zico and has Brazilian world cup winner Lucio as the marquee player. In the inaugural edition, FC Goa reached the semi finals, before bowing out.
The League stage will see 56 games followed by a two-leg knock out round and culminate in the final
in Goa.
