As the frenzied league and semi-final stages allow fans some space to breathe before the all-important final, it's worth remembering that the battle for the trophy in Indian Super League (ISL) Season 2 will be between the losing semi-finalists from last season - FC Goa and Chennaiyin FC - at Goa's home ground, the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda.
Having missed out narrowly on making the final last year after losing to Atletico de Kolkata on penalties, FC Goa stood out with their mental strength and ability to turn around games from losing positions. Another thing which further highlights their brilliance is the winning mentality instilled by coach Zico.
No team has recovered to claim more points from losing positions than FC Goa this year. The Gaurs came from behind to register 2-1 and 5-1 victories against Kerala Blasters FC and 3-1 and 3-2 wins against NorthEast United FC and Delhi Dynamos FC – all in the league stage, which is a testimony to the fact that Zico's men are no walkovers for Chennaiyin FC.
One big advantage for FC Goa will be playing in front of the home crowd. Goa have one of the most loud fan bases in the league and being the hotbed of football in India, the Fatorda Stadium can expect a full house.
Before the finale, IBNLive takes a look at few of the players who can decide the result of the match for The Guars.
Lucimer Ferreira da Silva: Big players decide big matches and Lucio has been doing it for a while now starting with his home town club Planaltina and spreading out to various leading clubs in Europe. In the 2002 UEFA Champions League final, Lucio, playing for Bayer Leverkusen, scored a goal against Real Madrid.
He played in the 2000 Olympics, FIFA World Cups (2002, 2006 and 2010) as well as the 2009 Confederations Cup. In all, he made over 100 appearances for Brazil. Lucio was also part of Jose Mourinho’s treble-winning Inter Milan team of 2010, which defeated his former club Bayern Munich in the Champions League final. Lucio has been a vital cog in FC Goa's defence and is expected to play a key role in the finale.
Leo Moura: He has been a revelation in the FC Goa colors. Having played in the right-back position for most of his career, he has adapted to the midfielder’s role brilliantly. Becoming the first player to complete 500 passes this season, Moura has been the catalyst for Goa’s successful run of form. His assists have come at a crucial times for FC Goa either to level a match or open the flood gates for the goals to flow.
Reinaldo: Another Brazilian who has been in stellar form this season. With plenty of experience, Reinaldo has been a pillar in Goa's attack. He was a part of PSG’s Champions League squad in 2004/05 and was with Brazilian club EC Internacional when FC Goa decided to bring him over. His attacking experience helped Goa register big victories. With 7 goals, including a hat-trick against NorthEast United FC, this Brazilian forward is a key schemer in Zico's plans.
Rafael Coelho: Brazilian Rafael Coelho Luiz came as a replacement for Victor Simeos de Oliveira. Rafael, who started his career with Figueirense, played for the likes of Vasco da Gama and Avai FC in Brazil besides having the experience of playing in Asia. Coelho scored a goal in Goa's 3-0 win against Delhi Dynamos in the second leg semi-final in Goa. With swift movement and intelligent passing, Coelho will surely have a great impact on Sunday.
Romeo Fernandes: Romeo can play on both flanks and his ball-distribution skills and passing ability are rated highly by his Dempo coaches. He represented India at the under-22 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers and scored on debut against the UAE in a 1-1 draw in 2012. The youngster gave a good account of his talent last year and found a legendary admirer in FC Goa coach Zico. His newly earned reputation saw him join Brazilian side Atletico Paranaense on loan, thus becoming the first Indian ever to play for a Brazilian club. The pacey attacker scored two crucial goals for FC Goa in their comeback victory over Delhi Dynamos in the first leg semi-final.
Mandar Rao Desai: The combination of Mandar Rao Desai and Romeo has been terrorizing opposition's defence this season. Desai is a promising talent and plays on the left of midfield. He is blessed with a great left foot and has the ability to dribble past defenders with his pace and ball control.
Jofre Mateu: The former Barcelona player has the distinction of reaching the ISL final for the second consecutive season but with two different teams. He played a stellar role as the Gaurs downed Delhi Dynamos 3-0 as he scored the opener and played a part in the third goal as well. Jofre played a vital role in Atletico de Kolkata’s title-winning ISL 2014 campaign and chipped in with a goal and 2 assists. His vast experience will certainly come handy for FC Goa in the final.
With both teams having a victory under their belt against each another, it definitely promises to be a belter of a grand finale on Sunday.
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