Match 34 preview: History favours FC Goa against Hyderabad FC in clash of distinct styles
FC Goa's resurgence will be put to test as they face high-flying Hyderabad FC in Match 34 of the Hero Indian Super League(ISL) on Saturday at the Athletic Stadium in Bambolim, Goa.
FC Goa's resurgence will be put to test as they face high-flying Hyderabad FC in Match 34 of the Hero Indian Super League(ISL) on Saturday at the Athletic Stadium in Bambolim, Goa.
Both teams have tasted victory in their previous fixtures, FC Goa defeated Bengaluru FC 2-1, whereas Hyderabad FC registered a marvelous 5-1 victory over Northeast United FC.
Form Guide
FC Goa
The Gaurs had terrible start to the Hero ISL 2021-22 season, as they lost their first three matches. Ferrndo's men have won two on the spin since and have secured only six points from their last five matches with two wins and three losses. FC Goa are currently eighth at the league table.
Hyderabad FC
Manue Marquez’s men are in astounding form as they look much better and improved team from last season. With three wins out of their last five fixtures, HFC sit third on the points table.
Head to Head
The two teams have met four times in the tournament. FC Goa had the upper hand on three occasions, while the other one ended in a draw.
Team News
FC Goa will be missing the service of midfielder Brandon Fernandes, as he is still recovering from the injury. Ortiz is suspended for the match after his red card against Bengaluru FC in the last match.
Key Stats
FC Goa falling apart to set-pieces
FC Goa has conceded eight goals from the set-piece, which is the highest among all teams in the tournament.
Hyderabad FC rock-solid defense
The Nizams defenders are difficult to beat and teams are finding difficult to score against them. Hyderabad has conceded only four goals this season.
Key Players
FC Goa
Alberto Noguera: The 32-year-old Spanish player bosses the midfield for the Gaurs and orchestrates the play. He is the leading goal scorer with two goals and one assist in five matches. Noguera has created the most number of chances for the Gaurs.
Devendra Murgaonkar: The young forward got on the scoresheet for FC Goa in their 2-1 win over Bengaluru FC and must continue to shoulder the goalscoring burden for the Gaurs. With a first taste of a goal this season, FC Goa will hope Murgaonkar can take off for the season.
Hyderabad FC
Bartholomew Ogbeche: The 37-year-old Nigerian is in scintillating form. Ogbeche scored a brace against NorthEast United in the last match. He is currently the joint top-scorer along with Igor Angulo (Mumbai City FC) with five goals.
Joao Victor: Hyderabad FC midfielder would like to continue his last match form against Goa. He has scored and assisted one goal so far.
Match Timings and Telecast Details
Match: FC Goa vs Hyderabad FC
Date: 18th December 2021
Venue: Athletic Stadium, Bambolim, Goa
Kick-off time: 9.30 pm
Telecast: Star Sports 2, Star Sports 2 HD, Star Sports 3, Hindi Commentary on Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 regional channels - Tamil, Bengali, Kannada, Telugu
Online Streaming: Disney+Hotstar and JioTV.