FC Goa will take on Chennaiyin FC in the final of the Indian Super League at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium in Fatorda on Sunday and despite having home advantage, they know that their opponents possess players in their ranks who could hurt them in this summit clash. These two sides have been the most attacking sides in the league and rightfully occupy the top two places in the number of goals scored. Team Sportstar picks out five players who have been superb this season and could have a telling impact on this title clash.
Stiven Mendoza (Chennaiyin FC)
The 23-year-old Colombian had an injury-stricken campaign last season but has been in stunning form this time round. He has scored 12 goals and is set to win the ISL Golden Boot. Mendoza’s pace, direct running and clinical finishing helped Chennaiyin FC get their season back on track and make it to the final. Ably assisted by fellow attackers Jeje Lalpekhlua and Bruno Pelissari, Mendoza will be closely marshalled by the FC Goa defence.
Leo Moura (FC Goa)
The experienced Brazilian Leo Moura was persuaded by the legendary Zico to sign for FC Goa and he has been instrumental in the way they play. Pulling the strings from midfield and able to dictate the flow of the game, the 37-year-old Moura has racked up eight assists this season and chipped in with crucial goals as well. He is their creator-in-chief and if Chennaiyin FC are to smother FC Goa’s attacks, they will need to keep a very close eye on him.
Apoula Edel (Chennaiyin FC)
The big Armenian goalkeeper made the switch from defending champions Atletico de Kolkata and is aiming to win his second successive title with Chennaiyin FC. He has kept six clean sheets this season and has been a tremendous presence between the posts. His shot-stopping and quick reflexes have seen him save crucial points for his side and FC Goa will have their work cut out to get past the former Paris St Germain keeper. He is known to be penalty-saving specialist and that could also work in favour of his team if the game goes to a tie-breaker.
Mandar Rao Desai (FC Goa)
Pacy winger Mandar has been wreaking havoc on the left flank all season long with his mazy runs and teasing crosses. FC Goa strikers Reinaldo and Thongkhosiem Haokip have benefitted from his services as Mandar has managed three goals and two assists, statistics which do not do him justice. Along with Romeo Fernandes on the other flank, the two wingers have been very direct in their play and are always willing to take on the opposing full-back. In the final, Mandar will most likely come up against the consistent Mehrajuddin Wadoo and that will be one battle to look out for.
Jeje Lalpekhlua (Chennaiyin FC)
While Elano took all the plaudits last season and Stiven Mendoza is getting them this time round, one man who has gone about his business without any fuss is young Indian striker Jeje Lalpekhlua. Jeje has scored six goals and provided three assists forming a deadly strike partnership with Mendoza. His tireless running and unselfish play suit Chennaiyin’s attacking play perfectly and he has become a very important player. Jeje is the top-scoring Indian in the ISL after Sunil Chhetri and with the Indian captain into his thirties, the 24-year-old from Mizoram has a real chance to stake his claim for a place in the national team.
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