ISL 2015: Delhi Dynamos 2-3 FC Goa - 5 talking points

FC Goa overcame a 2-0 deficit to produce a thrilling 3-2 comeback win against Delhi Dynamos. The Gaurs went 2-0 down in the first half, as goals from Greene and Nabi put Delhi in the lead. Substitute Romeo Fernandes scored two quickfire goals to equalise, while Joffre scored the winner in the final few minutes, taking FC Goa to the top of the table, while the Dynamos lost their unbeaten home record to finish 4th.The result ensures the teams will face off again twice over the next 10 days. While the first leg will be played out here, the second would take place in Fatorda, Goa. Irrespective of the result, Delhi will finish their campaign where they started. Carlos & Co would be hoping though that the return leg is their penultimate fixture and not the final one this season.Here are five of the major talking points:

#1 Delhis patient build up could prove risky in the semi finals against Goa

Delhi Dynamos attacked with too many numbers (Photo courtesy ISL)

Over the course of the tournament, Delhi Dynamos always seem to take a little more time when building up their attack. If you do argue that they are much more effective this way, you’d probably be right to an extent. In Robin Singh, Delhi have an imposing striker as a reference point. The twenty five year old does extremely well to hold play up and involve his team mates while going forward.

But this approach at times backfired. They commit six to seven players when probing forward and as a consequence their defenders are left exposed. Quality teams have picked them apart on the counterattack with ease. Goa proved this tonight as they opened up Delhi’s defense from a counter attack for their second goal.

#2 Lcio vs. Robin Singh battle was a high quality one

Robin Singh shaded his battle with Lucio (Photo courtesy ISL)

This matchup was intriguing to say the least. The hard tackling Brazilian had to be at his very best against Delhi’s home boy. The Dynamos centered their attack around Robin and the man responsible for marking him was Lúcio. Often the Indian had his back towards goal when receiving the ball and the centre back made his presence felt.

Whether the striker drifted to the wings or set himself inside the box, Lúcio tracked Robin all around the final third. Delhi’s number 9 did get the better of the Lúcio quite a few times. He surprised Lucio with his pace to get around the centre back. If you had to pick a winner, you’d have to say Robin edged it, though not by much.

#3 Delhi still cant get the better of Goa

The Gaurs were the first team to breach the Delhi fortress this season (Photo courtesy ISL)

The last time they visited the capital, Goa won 4-1 with Robert Pires getting on the score sheet as well. Tonight Delhi played well but were again at the losing end. Prior to today, Zico’s men had emerged winners in all their three previous matches against Delhi.

In their backyard, The Dynamos have shown they have no problem scoring goals. Delhi have scored in every home game this season. Unlike last year where they failed to score in four home matches. They started the game well and dominated the first half. Complacency kicked in and their defense was caught napping on numerous occasions in the second half. All credit to Goa as they never put their heads down and continued to play with vigor despite being two goals down to emerge 3-2 winners.

#4 Goa showed they equally effective without Leo Moura

Leo Moura looked on from the sidelines tonight (Photo courtesy ISL)

With a place in the final four already guaranteed, Zico made four changes to his side tonight. One of the key men missing was Leo Moura. Goa is a team that likes to have the ball but tonight they relied more on their deadly counter attack. With Moura missing, their midfield looked a bit devoid of ideas.

However, Goa showed why they deserve to be in the final four. Zico’s men proved they are extremely versatile in attack. Tonight two of their three goals were a result of some wonderful wing play. Romeo and Reinaldo were the respective architects. They exhibited determination and character to come from two goals behind and take the lead. Goa will enter the semi finals as winners of the league stage with twenty five points.

#5 Local boy Romeo scored two goals in two minutes for Goa

Romeo Fernandes came on and scored two valuable goals (Photo courtesy ISL)

Romeo Fernandes scored two well taken goals tonight. This was the first time the twenty three year old got on the score sheet this season. With Goa down 2-0, he came on as a substitute in the 56th minute and scored two quick fire goals to bring his side back into the game.

For his first one, he cut inside from the right wing and unleashed a powerful drive with his left foot. His second was a typical poacher’s goal. Striker, Reinaldo powered into the box from the left wing and squared it off for the Indian, who only had to tap the ball into the net from two yards out. Zico will be thrilled with Romeo’s response as he came off the bench and played some stellar football.