Goa is one of the biggest footballing states in the country despite its size. As the ISL finally makes its way to Goa, the excitement in the state is at an all-time high. It's going to be a cracker of a game as the two teams that finished top of the leader board in the Twitter battle take to the field with a host of big names on display. Both teams come into this match with perfect pre-season results although Goa looked more cohesive as a unit and did not concede even one goal. This match will essentially be a battle between Goa's attacking prowess against Chennai's resolute looking defence.Miguel Herlein vs Mikael Silvestre21-year-old Miguel Herlein has made somewhat of a reputation for himself for scoring extravagant long distance goals as he did against India under-19s in a practice match. With two goals in pre-season, he looks to be a certain starter and will surely cause problems to ex-Manchester United and Arsenal man, Mikael Silvestre who has won a host of accolades including the Champions League with the Red Devils. He brings a wealth of experience and will be able to command the defence.Clifford Miranda vs Bernard MendyHaving not had much time in pre-season, it is not certain whether Zico will give Clifford Miranda the nod for the first game. However, the left winger is a wily customer who makes mazy runs and puts in excellent crosses. With men in the box, he could be a handful for any defence. Mendy though, is another Chennai player who brings the experience of European football to India. The right full-back is a physical presence who runs tirelessly. Having put in goals scoring displays in pre-season, the former French international will look to keep that form running.Grégory Arnolin vs Jeje LalpekhluaGregory Arnolin is the most physical of the Goa FC defenders and his experience and strength will be vital to the team's fortunes during the course of the tournament. Coming up against Jeje Lalpekhlua, a young Indian national striker who will be hungry to hit the ground running, Arnolin will want to show what he is capable of. The Mohun Bagan man will test the French defender with his pace, power and trickery. Players to watch outFC Goa:Robert Pires- The former Arsenal 'Invincible' and World Cup winner with France may not have youth on his side, but his ability to control a football has not deserted him. The ease and grace with which he can string passes together despite being surrounded by defenders and his ability to control the game is a joy to watch. The Frenchman will probably take up the attacking midfield role for his new team which means that goal scoring chances will come in plenty for the FC Goa strikers.Chennaiyin FC:Bojan Djordjic- The 32-year-old Swede is a former Manchester United man and is blessed with immaculate footballing vision. His control and ability to pick a pass make him one of the most dangerous players in the Chennaiyin ranks. Having taken the captain's armband, Djordjic will have a lot to prove in the ISL and will want to set the pace in his very first game.Manager speak:Zico (FC Goa):“I do not have a problem if they (the players) do not play well. But I do not want them giving me less than 100% on the pitch.”Marco Materazzi (Chennaiyin FC):"For me, we have the best team. We had lesser time to train than the others but we have a squad full of professionals so I am confident about our chances."
