Delhi Dynamos FC have found some form in the second half of the competition after two excellent wins in the tournament. Atlético de Kolkata, on the other hand, are winless in their last couple of matches but still find themselves in second spot in the Hero Indian Super League. Harm van Veldhoven’s home side will therefore look to cash in on their form and clinch full points against the visitors which will catapult them into the top half of the table.Antonio López Habas also will be keen on getting something if not full points out of this 12th round game to keep them within knocking distance of a spot in the knockouts. The last time the two sides met at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, the points were shared in a 1-1 draw.Delhi’s resurgence has been down to a change of strategy and the wunderkind, Gustavo Dos Santos. The 20-year-old Brazilian has been in tremendous form and has become the lynchpin of the Delhi attack. Delhi have now scored only one goal less than Kolkata (13-14) but have more shots (140-106) and shots on goal (69-54) than the visitors. They will take courage from these stats to push for victory. From a defensive point of view, the home side have conceded two more goals than Kolkata (12-10) and will want to keep things tight at the back against a potent attack. Kolkata look far superior at the back, putting in more tackles (230-135), more blocks (75-73) and more interceptions (328-315) than their hosts. It is this defensive stability they will bank on to keep the rejuvenated Delhi attack in check.Form guide (most recent matches first)Delhi Dynamos FC: WWLLDAtlético de Kolkata: DLWDLGustavo dos Santos vs Borja FernándezThe Brazilian youngster is brimming with confidence and will fancy his chances against a solid Atlético de Kolkata defence. His speed, versatility and ability to shoot from distance make him a dangerous proposition. Defensive midfielder Borja will relish the chance to go toe to toe with dos Santos. Capable of putting in crunching tackles and blessed with the ability to stop attacks, the Spaniard will be an influential figure for the away side. Hans Mulder vs Luis GarcíaGetting on to the score sheet in the previous match will have helped Mulder’s confidence ahead of this important clash. His ability to break up play and distribute the ball will be important if Delhi have to get a good result. Against him will be the charismatic Luis García, who is performing superbly well for his side. Garcia’s ability to get the ball away from defenders and his intelligence can trouble the Delhi defence. His incredible assist in the previous match against FC Pune City is proof enough of his ability. Mulder will have to keep the ex-Liverpool man in check throughout. Francis Fernandes vs Nallappan MohanrajThe wily Fernandes was a thorn in the side for Peter Reid’s Mumbai City FC team in their previous encounter. A tireless runner, Fernandes got forward on multiple occasions from the centre and the wings and even put in a delightful cross for Dos Santos to head home. His sheer determination to move forward and speed makes him a problem for the Kolkata defence. Left back Mohanraj has been impeccable in defence for Kolkata in the past few matches. His work rate is impressive and he tracks back well to provide defensive cover on the left flank.Players to watchDelhi Dynamos FCKristof Van Hout – Van Hout has been in exceptional form of late and the towering Belgian will be looking to keep his fourth clean sheet against a potent Kolkata attack. The 6’10” behemoth is an intimidating figure in goal. He covers his area well and despite his size, is swift and reflexive. Another good showing from the goalkeeper will help Delhi’s cause greatly.Atlético de KolkataFikru Teferra - The tough Ethiopian international will want to increase his tally of four goals and will be hoping he can do it against Delhi. The acrobatic striker is unpredictable and lethal in the box. His speed is deceptive and he’s a good header of the ball as well.Team speakDelhi DynamosHarm van Veldhoven (head coach): “We are in the winning mood, and we have to win”Atlético de KolkataAntonio López Habas (head coach): “We perform in the same way, whether home or away. Getting the three points, that’s what is important.”
