ISL 2023-24 Semi-Final: Three Keys to Success for FC Goa and Mumbai City

Jayesh Rane can be a crucial factor for Mumbai City in the second leg of the ISL semi-final.

The stage is set for a thrilling climax in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 semi-final second leg. After an energetic first leg that saw Mumbai City FC edge FC Goa 3-2, both teams return for the second leg with everything to play for. 

In the first leg, FC Goa were dominant throughout but lost their composure in the dying moments. As a result, their 2-0 lead was cut short by Mumbai City FC, with the likes of Lallianzuala Chhangte and Vikram Partap Singh getting on the scoresheet and Jayesh Rane dictating everything.

Meanwhile, let’s take a look at three key areas where each team should focus to secure their passage to the final.

FC Goa

Involve Noah Sadaoui more in the game

The Moroccan forward has been FC Goa’s talisman this season, scoring a stunning 15 goals. However, in the first leg, he was largely isolated. Goa need to find ways to get him on the ball in dangerous positions. Playing him alongside a creative midfielder who can unlock defences will be crucial. Brandon Fernandes, known for his vision and passing, could be the link for the goal poacher.

Restrict Jayesh Rane and Yoëll van Nieff in Midfield

Mumbai City FC’s dominance in the center of the park in the first leg stifled Goa’s creativity. The Gaurs need to be more assertive in midfield battles against Mumbai. An aggressive pressing game to win the ball back quickly and limit time and space for Jayesh Rane and van Nieff will be vital. FC Goa’s midfielders need to anticipate Mumbai’s passing patterns and cut off supply lines to their wingers.

Not Allow Space to Chhangte

Mumbai City FC’s winger Lallianzuala Chhangte was a constant threat in the first leg, exploiting the space behind Goa’s full-backs. FC Goa’s defenders like Jay Gupta need to be more disciplined and organized. A combination of tighter marking and zonal marking could be effective. Closing down Chhangte quickly and not allowing him to get on his preferred left foot will be critical. FC Goa defenders need to take him away from the goalmouth area to avoid his goal-scoring prowess reflect on the scoresheet.

Mumbai City FC

Make use of Vikram Partap Singh efficiently

Mumbai City FC’s young striker, Vikram Partap, showed glimpses of his potential in the first leg. However, he needs more support from his teammates. Creating crosses and through balls for him to run onto could be effective against a potentially stretched Goa backline. Vikram is a ‘fox in the box’ and can score crucial goals for his team. Using him properly can be a key to success in this game.

Restrict the threat of Noah Sadaoui and Brandon Fernandes

Shutting down Goa’s attacking duo of Noah Sadaoui and Brandon Fernandes is crucial. Mumbai City FC’s central defenders need to be alert and avoid getting caught out by their pace and movement. Double-teaming Sadaoui in dangerous areas and closing down Brandon Fernandes whenever he receives the ball could be effective tactics for Petr Kratky.

Make use of early chances 

An away goal is worth its weight in gold. Mumbai City FC need to capitalize on any early scoring opportunities they create. A quick goal will put immense pressure on FC Goa and force them to open up more, potentially exposing weaknesses in the backline.

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