Chennaiyin FC Vs FC Goa: Five players who could decide the outcome

These players can turn the tide to either side when these two teams clash.

The Indian Super League is about to enter its playoffs stage, where the fixtures will be decided over two legs. While table-toppers FC Goa face in-form Chennaiyin FC, ATK and Bengaluru FC contest the other semi-final. The tie between the Gaurs and the Marina Machans is definitely one of the most anticipated fixtures of the season. The reason being that both outfits have hit form at the right phase of the campaign. While FC Goa have steamrolled their way to direct AFC Champions League group stage qualification by finishing as league leaders, Chennaiyin have won six of their last eight fixtures to make the playoffs. [KH_ADWORDS type="3" align="center"][/KH_ADWORDS] Both sides' coaches will be relying on their key figures to deliver once again when the two teams meet in the playoffs. Here are the five players who could decide the fate of the tie between Goa and Chennaiyin:

5. Anirudh Thapa

Much like his team, Anirudh Thapa has had a sensational second half in the league where he has turned the season around for his side and himself. The midfielder has garnered a lot of praise from Owen Coyle and is setting the stage on fire with his tenacity and work-rate.

Anirudh Thapa will be an indispensable figure for Chennaiyin FC in the playoffs

Thapa will be indispensable for Chennaiyin FC against FC Goa, owing to his ability to sniff out danger by making important interceptions, tackles and help in making quick transitions from defence to attack. The 22-year-old has made five assists as well and will be looking to add to his tally. Whichever team wins the battle of the midfield will control the proceedings and that’s where Thapa could turn the tide in his team’s favour.

4. Brandon Fernandes

By far the most creative Indian player in the league, Brandon Fernandes has been one of the few domestic players who has maintained good form on a consistent basis. His chemistry alongside players like Ferran Corominas and Hugo Boumous has made the Gaurs a dangerous attacking force. The 25-year-old has made six assists, which is the most by an Indian player in the campaign. He will be a constant threat with his passing range and flexible positioning, as he can sit deep, keep the ball ticking or shift to the wing and deliver pinpoint crosses. [KH_ADWORDS type="4" align="center"][/KH_ADWORDS]

3. Nerijus Valskis

Nerijus Valskis started the season on a dry note, but once the goals started going in, there was no stopping him. The striker has been immense in Chennaiyin’s rise and has emerged as a brilliant target man for Coyle to plan his gameplay around. His ability to shoot from distance and aerial prowess make him a tough nut to crack. The 32-year-old has managed to score 13 goals in 17 fixtures and has also assisted five other times. The onus would be on Goa’s defenders to stop him from scoring and the clash against towering figures like Mourtada Fall would be a treat to watch for the fans.

2. Ferran Corominas

Corominas will be expected to take up the mantle of scoring for FC Goa

Corominas is the all-time leading goalscorer in the ISL with 48 goals in 55 games and his ability to change the complexion of a game must not be overlooked. He can single-handedly create goalscoring opportunities and has the knack of finding his teammates in better positions. The 38-year-old is not slowing down with age and has forged a strong partnership with Boumous. The skipper has already scored 14 goals in 15 games and will be on the radar of CFC defenders when these two teams face-off. [KH_RELATED_NEWS title="Related News | Article Continues Below"][/KH_RELATED_NEWS]

1. Hugo Boumous

Boumous has had an unbelievable campaign this season. The attacking midfielder has managed to make 21 goal contributions (11 goals and 10 assists) in merely 14 games. He will be the main threat going forward for the Gaurs. Chennaiyin FC defenders must not overlook Boumous’ influence on the game by shifting all their focus to containing Corominas or vice-versa.