East Bengal FC is set to host FC Goa in a crucial Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 encounter on Friday, September 27, at the Vivekananda Yuvabharati Krirangan in Kolkata. This match is pivotal for both teams, each seeking to turn their fortunes around in the early stages of the season.
East Bengal, known as the Red & Gold Brigade, has had a dismal start to the season, losing their first two matches against Bengaluru FC and Kerala Blasters.
"We have been working a lot on converting chances. We have been training a lot of days on how to make the right pass and right finishing," said East Bengal head coach Carles Cuadrat, highlighting the team's focus on improving their efficiency in front of the goal.
In contrast, FC Goa has managed only a point from their two games so far, drawing 1-1 against Mohammedan SC in their last outing. Despite this, FC Goa has shown more promise in attack, scoring two goals in as many games, although they need to tighten up their defense.
Head-to-Head and Recent Form
Historically, FC Goa has had the upper hand in encounters between the two teams. They have scored in each of their eight ISL fixtures against East Bengal FC and have won five of these matches. In the last five encounters, FC Goa has won three times, with one draw and one loss.
Armando Sadiku of FC Goa is in good form, having scored in his last two ISL matches, and he will be aiming to become the first Goan player to score in three consecutive games.
Predicted Lineups and Key Players
East Bengal's probable XI includes Prabhsukhan Singh Gill in goal, with Lalchungnunga, Hijazi Maher, and Mohamad Rakip in defense. Midfield duties are likely to be handled by Saúl Crespo, Souvik Chakrabarti, and Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, while Cleiton Silva, Naorem Mahesh Singh, and Nandhakumar Sekar are expected to lead the attack.
For FC Goa, Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem is set to start in goal, with Seriton Fernandes, Odei Onaindia, and Sandesh Jhingan forming the defensive line. Rowllin Borges and Carl McHugh will anchor the midfield, supported by Brandon Fernandes, Udanta Singh, and Noah Sadaoui, with Carlos Martinez leading the forward line.
Live Streaming and Match Details
The match is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 PM IST on Friday, September 27. Fans can watch the live action on various streaming platforms and TV channels. For those looking to catch the game online, it will be available on the official ISL streaming platforms and other sports streaming services.
Betting Predictions and Odds
Given the current form and historical head-to-head records, FC Goa is tipped to win the match, with odds of @2.42 on Parimatch, translating to an implied probability of 41.3%.
Another attractive bet is the "Both Teams to Score" market, with odds of @1.58 on Parimatch, representing a 63.3% probability. This is supported by the fact that both teams have shown defensive frailties and the open, attacking nature of ISL football.
Conclusion
As East Bengal FC seeks to claim their first win of the season, they will have to overcome a FC Goa side that has historically dominated their encounters. With key players like Naorem Mahesh Singh and Cleiton Silva for East Bengal, and Armando Sadiku and Carlos Martinez for FC Goa, this match promises to be an exciting and closely contested affair.
East Bengal will bank on their home advantage, having emerged triumphant in their last ISL game at the Vivekananda Yuvabharati Krirangan against Bengaluru FC in April this year. However, FC Goa's superior squad depth and recent head-to-head record make them favorites to secure an away win.
The stage is set for an intense battle as both teams look to turn their season around in this critical ISL 2024-25 match.
