MARGAO: FC Goa coach Zico says attack will be the best form of defence to book the final berth in the return leg semi-final match against Atlectico de Kolkata in the first edition of Hero Indian Super League, at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Wednesday, at 7 p.m.
The first leg in Kolkata ended in a 0-0 stalemate with FC Goa failing to get the better of injury-hit Atletico de Kolkata after having better share of exchanges and scoring chances.
FC Goa now will be looking forward to deliver the final blow in front of the home crowd. The early loss of energetic left wing-back Narayan Das due to knee injury has affected the home team’s rhythm and also switching from grass to artificial turf.
Zohib Amiri, who played in the left flank is likely to retain his place. Striker Miroslav Slepicka, Romeo Fernandes, Mandar Rao Dessai and Andre Santos will be the key players for the home team’s success to the final.
With Narayan Das unlikely to play tomorrow, coach Zico has the choice to field Bruno Pinheiro after returning from one match suspension and also likely to play Peter Carvalho.
“We will come out in full force to secure victory,” the Brazilian tactician said.
“Our team always looks to attack. In the last match you can see the statistics that the most of the opportunities were created by our team. We are going to play the same way as we have played before. But one thing that needs to be noted is that the opposing team also wants to win and neutralize our ways of playing,” he added.
Plagued with injuries, Atletico de Kolkata lacked sharpness in their attack in the absence of Fikru in the first leg. Their defence will, however, be strengthened by the return of Arnab Mondal from injury.
