PANJIM: Manchester United’s legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson once stressed, “Attack wins you games, defence wins you titles.” The same still holds true till date and was evident in FC Goa’s 4-1 loss to Chennaiyin FC in the first semi-final of the Indian Super League, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennai.
The Gaurs have been scintillating throughout the season with their attack force which has rightly earned them top spot in the league standings. However, the scenario was different last Saturday. The absence of their inform players Hugo Boumous and Brandon Fernandes who suffered minor injury set-backs along with Edu Bedia out of the squad for personal reasons saw the Gaurs struggle to take control of the away game.
The defence line of the men in orange were left decimated by Owen Coyle’s side who have seen a resurgence since his appointment–from failing to find the net for 450 minutes at the start of the season to slamming home four goals in 45 minutes through Goian, Thapa, Sabia and Chhangte. The Super Manchas’ transformation has been a contrast of what FC Goa stood for throughout the season.
The current Super Cup champions who currently on a six-game winning run at Fatorda, have very little in the do-or-die leg.
A glimmer of hope still remains in the grasps of Clifford’s lads as they go into the second leg with a crucial away goal which was scored by substitute Saviour Gama in the dying minutes of the game.
Although it was night to forget for many Goan supporters, they still have every right to believe in the magic of The Beautiful Game. From Manchester United comeback against Paris Saint Germain which saw the visitors qualify for the next knock-out round due to the crucial away goal making the aggregate score (3-3) look futile to watching European champions Liverpool overturn a 3-0 deficit against Barcelona at the highly vociferous Anfield Stadium.
With these fresh memories still lingering from last football season, football lovers believe that although it is a huge ask for the Gaurs it is still doable in similar fashion.
Miranda’s side need to score at least three past the Chennaiyin keeper provided they manage to keep a clean sheet. However if fortune goes against their wishful thinking and the visitors manage to get an away goal, the Goan players have to find four goals to at least keep the tie alive and take it extra time. If the visitors score two goal, then, FC Goa have to score six if they are to progress.
If the Gaurs are to make the final berth, it will require a lot of grinding and belief. The advantages of a backed home support and players’ determination with some cautions to keep in mind, all that is now left is for the mountain to be conquered.
Match starts at 7.30 p.m.
