Goa : FC Goa are about to face familiar opposition on Friday (April 23) as they go up against reigning AFC Champions League West Zone champions, Persepolis FC for the second game in a row in their Group E clash. .
The Gaurs have been defiant so far, drawing twice and narrowly losing out 1-2 to Friday’s opponents, which is going to give them a bit of hope heading into this crucial clash.
An overlook on both the teams as they are set to clash for the second time this season:
FC Goa :-
Juan Ferrando’s men got off to the perfect start against Persepolis last time out, when captain Edu Bedia scored early on, but that joy was short-lived as the Iranian champions came back from the trail and scored twice within the first half an hour of the game.
However, the positive is that the Gaurs did not concede again in the game, which certainly would give them a confidence boost as they step onto the pitch once more on Friday against the group leaders.
The head coach of the men in orange has time and again stressed on the need for fitness as the games come thick and fast. It is also likely to play a big part in deciding the fortunes in this game.
“It can be tricky for all the teams to play six games in 20 days but it has not been that big of a problem for us,” said Coach Ferrando. “We need proper preparation after each matchday so that we can participate with the best possible condition.”
Juan Ferrando has also revealed that Goa’s goal scorer from the previous game and captain Edu Bedia could be carrying an injury. He said, “Edu Bedia – our captain – is a big doubt tomorrow. He suffered a knock from the match. It’s nothing serious but we will find out soon. The physio and therapist are working hard to nurse him back to match fitness.”
As it stands, the Spaniard will have to miss the game due to suspension after picking up his second yellow card of the group stages of the tournament in the last game. His absence might force the coach to consider changing his shape and formation to combat the attacking threat of Persepolis FC, but the Gaurs will be welcoming back Alexander Romario Jesuraj from suspension.
Goa are currently sitting third in the Group E standings behind Persepolis and Al Wahda with two points from three games.
Persepolis FC :-
They had what we call a perfect start to life in the AFC Champions League 2021, just as many had predicted. Easily the favourites to progress from here on, the team from Iran has a perfect record so far, playing three and winning three, grabbing all the available nine points.
This puts them top of the Group E standings and well on course to top the group with a few games to spare. Despite a 2-1 win over FC Goa last time out, Persepolis Head Coach Yahya Golmohammadi was appreciative of the Gaurs’ effort and is taking nothing for granted.
“Before our game against Goa, everyone thought they were a weak side. But they’re not. They have shown good quality and are playing very well, coherently, with high intensity and with heart,” he said.
“We will try to focus well on defending free-kicks so that it is not seen as a weakness for Persepolis. The two goals we conceded from set-pieces were very rare and the fact that they happened twice may be a cause for concern. However, we need to address this issue with more practice and will remain focused.”
A fourth consecutive win for Persepolis in Group E could make qualification for the Round of 16 of the Champions League a matter of mere formality.
As for the Gaurs, after a spirited display in the first half of the group stage, Juan Ferrando would look forward, that his men would learn their lessons and kick on from the gritty performances.
