CFC vs FCG Match Preview: This is where things get interesting as the ISL Playoffs get on course. The first leg of the first semi-final will between Chennaiyin FC and FC Goa at the Marina Arena. Chennaiyin sealed the deal by beating Mumbai City FC in what was a virtual quarter-final and advanced to the final few stages in what was a remarkable turnaround after an underwhelming start to the season. As for FC Goa, history was made by them in Jamshedpur as they became the first Indian club to qualify for the group stages of the AFC Champions League.
The upcoming semi-final promises to be a cracking affair, as Chennai are unbeaten in their last eight games while winning six and drawing two. Whereas, FC Goa have registered five wins on the trot lately. A win for FC Goa could get them the joint highest points with Bengaluru FC in ISL history.
Match Details
Date- Saturday, February 29
Kick-Off- 7:30 PM (IST)
Venue- Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium
Chennaiyin FC
Andre Schembri remains the only player who’s out due to injury for the hosts. Other than that the two-time champions have no suspensions or any further injuries to report. Dragos Firtulescu should be starting at the right-wing if Schembri isn’t able to make it. Anirudh Thapa, Eli Sabia, Rafael Crivellaro, Goian and Nerijus Valskis are some of the key players to name a few, and should all start.
FC Goa
As for the table toppers, Edu Bedia will not be available in midfield and has gone back to Spain due to personal reasons. However, Hugo Boumous has been in sensational form this season and will play the anchor role in midfield. Brandon Fernandes has also displayed signs of quality, while Ferran Corominas should be leading the attack for the visitors. Mourtada Fall, Carlos Pena and Mandar Rao Desasi could formulate the three-man defence.
Chennaiyin FC: Vishal Kaith, Laldinliana Renthlei, Eli Sabia, Lucian Goian, Jerry Lalrinzuala, Anirudh Thapa, Edwin Sydney Vanspaul, Rafael Crivellaro, Andre Schembri, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Nerijus Valskis
FC Goa: Mohammad Nawaz, Seriton Fernandes, Mourtada Fall, Carlos Pena, Mandar Rao Desai, Ahmed Jahouh, Lenny Rodrigues, Jackichand Singh, Hugo Boumous, Brandon Fernandes, Ferran Corominas
Ferran Corominas has been topping the charts for FC Goa in terms of goals. Corominas has 14 goals and four assists from 15 games this season.
Nerijus Valskis has been in sublime form for Chennaiyin FC. Valskis has bagged 13 goals and has five assists from 17 games this season.
Rafael Crivellaro has also been quality in the advanced role for Chennaiyin FC. Crivellaro has seven goals and six assists from 17 games this season.
Hugo Boumous has been the player of the ISL this season. The FC Goa star man has 11 goals and 10 assists from 14 appearances this season.
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