ISL 2023-24: FC Goa aim dominant start against Punjab FC

This will be the first-ever meeting between FC Goa and Punjab FC.

FC Goa and Punjab FC are gearing up for an exhilarating showdown in the 2023-24 Indian Super League (ISL) season. This match, scheduled for Sunday, 2 October 2023, at 8 PM IST, carries significant weight as it marks Punjab FC's second appearance in the ISL.

As FC Goa, an established force in the league, seek to start their campaign on a high note, Punjab FC aim to rebound from their previous match - a challenging 3-1 defeat to Mohun Bagan. Both teams are motivated for a strong season, setting the stage for a spirited and unpredictable contest that could have a substantial impact on their ISL journeys.

The Stakes

FC Goa 

FC Goa are entering this match with strong ambitions, aiming to kickstart their ISL 2023-24 campaign with a victory. With a successful track record in the league, they hold themselves to high standards. Playing on their home turf, they are determined to secure nothing less than a win, especially after their solid performance in the Durand Cup.

Punjab FC

For Punjab FC, this marks their second outing in the ISL, following a challenging 3-1 defeat to Mohun Bagan. While they face the daunting task of playing away from home, Punjab FC remain resilient and resolute. They are keen to demonstrate their capabilities and are confident in their ability to achieve a positive result in this encounter.

The clash between FC Goa and Punjab FC promises to be an engrossing battle, with both teams vying for success in the league. Football enthusiasts can look forward to an exciting match that may significantly impact the course of the teams' respective ISL campaigns.

Injury & Team News

Both FC Goa and Punjab FC are fortunate to have a full roster to choose from, with no injury concerns heading into the match. This bodes well for both sides as they seek to make a strong start to the season.

Head-to-head

This will be the first meeting between the two sides.

Predicted Line-ups

FC Goa (4-2-3-1)

Arshdeep Singh (GK), Seriton Fernandes, Odei Onaindia, Jay Gupta, Saviour Gama, Raynier Fernandes, Carl McHugh, Udanta Singh, Brandon Fernandes, Noah Sadaoui, Carlos Martinez

Punjab FC (4-4-2)

Kiran Limbu (GK), Khaiminthang Lhungdim, Melroy Assisi, Nikhil Prabhu, Mohammed Salah, Prasanth Karuthadathkuni, Ashis Pradhan, Juan Mera, Brandon Vanlalremdika, Luka Majcen, Madih Talal

Players to Watch

Noah Sadaoui (FC Goa)

Noah Sadaoui, who shone as FC Goa's standout player in the Durand Cup, is set to continue his promising start to the season. His skillful play and ability to make a difference on the field will be closely watched by fans and opponents alike.

Luka Majcen (Punjab FC)

Luka Majcen, the Slovenian forward, showcased his scoring prowess in Punjab FC's opening match. With a goal to his name, he will aim to maintain his impressive form and be a pivotal figure in Punjab FC's outing against FC Goa.

Did You Know?

• FC Goa and Punjab FC are set to clash for the very first time in the history of the Indian Super League.
• Luka Majcen, the Slovenian forward for Punjab FC, is the third foreign player to play in all the top three tiers of Indian football.
• Punjab FC's defence includes Mohamed Salah, who shares his name with the renowned Egyptian football star.

Telecast

The kick-off for the FC Goa vs Punjab FC game is scheduled at 8:00 PM IST. The match will be played at the PJN stadium, Fatorda, Goa. The live broadcast and live streaming of the game will be available on the Sports18 Network (Sports18 1 Channel/VH1 Channel) and JioCinema app, respectively. Viewers from outside India can watch the game on OneFootball.