It is fair to say that by far, FC Goa are one the most consistent side in the Indian Super League 2015-16. Despite a disappointing start to their first three games, FC Goa found their rhythm at the right time and ended up with 25 points from 14 matches on top of the table last time around, facing just three defeats. Making the semi-finals in the inaugural season of the ISL, coach Zico went on to prove his managerial potential in the second season.
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Although many Goa fans might still not have gotten over the heartbreaking loss to Chennaiyin FC on their home turf, the Blues can still keep their head up on what they have produced throughout the course of the season. Although they endured heavy defeats against an inform Atletico De Kolkata and Chennaiyin FC, the Gaurs were in the driver’s seat for much of the season.
Zico must be hailed for the tactical changes he made at the time his team were lagging behind, with the results clearly showing the impact. The ‘White Pele’ was also instrumental in tapping local Indian talent and giving them enough playing time such as the likes of Mandar Rao Dessai, Romeo Fernandes, and Laxmikant Kattimani. The Brazilian ensured each of them was given enough responsibility and brought out the best in them.
Just like how Zico was a complete attacking player, FC Goa displayed the same attacking prowess throughout the season. The Brazilian’s attacking ideology and simple yet balanced playing style was demonstrated in Goa’s 7-0 demolition of Mumbai City FC and the 5-1 thrashing of Kerala Blasters on their way to scoring the most goals in last year’s edition of the ISL.
Zico couldn’t have asked more from his men after all the daunting concerns. As the tournament progressed, every single player responded to the task when called upon, irrespective of whether they were starters or not. The collective team performances are what kept Goa afloat, which Zico surely established to manage.
Given Zico’s favoured 3-5-2 formation given that he likes to bring enough stability in midfield and enough opportunity to attack ahead, this FC Goa line up can see them lifting the ISL trophy this time.
Goalkeeper – Laxmikant Kattimani
Dempo FC goalkeeper was one of the most surprising packages in the last ISL season, impressing everyone with his control and command of the box. With his solid goalkeeping between the sticks, the inclusion of Kattimani in the playing XI has helped Goa forge a sold backbone to the side whilst displaying their attacking prowess. Playing behind the experienced defence of Lucio and Gregory Arnolin, Kattimani has gelled up well with the overseas players, lifting the burden off their shoulders.
Playing for Dempo in the I-League, Kattimani featured as much as in 11 matches last season, making 37 saves and keeping 2 clean sheets. His consistency has seen experienced Brazilian goalkeeper Elinton Andrade, who has played for sides like Fluminense and Marseille in Brazil and Europe, playing second fiddle to him. Being a homegrown player Zico has been very dependable on Kattimani in goal, with his inclusion giving the Brazilian more options to play with other overseas players.
Defence
Left back – Gregory Arnolin
Another veteran who has been a key member for Zico in FC Goa’s defence is Gregory Arnolin. The Martinique international has been a regular member of the FC Goa team right from the first season. However, defending is not only Gregory’s priority as his ability to chip in with goals have also helped Goa a long way.
Given his physical power and pace, Gregory has also been putting his body on the line whenever needed. His hunger for scoring goals has seen the defender net three times for the Goa team across two seasons in the ISL. And his strong performances have prompted Goa to sign him once again for the third season, who will be grateful to have the beast once again on the back line.
Centre back – Lucio
Lucio remains the best central defender that is available to FC Goa, as the Brazilian established himself as the backbone of the defence. Despite ageing, the 2002 World Cup winner still remains a key member given his vast experience, physical prowess and his tackling ability. Lucio's experience was crucial in FC Goa's race for the trophy as the Brazilian made a total of 14 appearances, more than any other marquee player in the League last season.
Now that Zico has got his man for the third edition of the ISL as well, the presence of the former Bayern Munich and Inter Milan will guard the defence of FC Goa for this season as well.
Right back – Rafael Dumas
Brazilian Rafael Dumas is one of the latest additions to this year’s FC Goa squad. The 21-year-old currently plies his trade at Flamengo FC and could be a favourite for Zico at the right back position this season, after the departure of Pronay Halder who occupied the position. Given that Dumas is well over 6 feet, he is good in the air at winning ariel duels along with his tough tackling abilities.
Along with that, Dumas’ positional sense and physicality benefit him in breaking down opposition play. His recent performance’s in Brazil has already tempted Zico to sign him and might soon get into first team action under his fellow countryman.
Wing-backs
Mandar Rao Dessai
Another part of Dempo Sports Club’s youth set-up along with Romeo Fernandes, Mandar Rao Dessai remains the best attacking threat for FC Goa on the left flank. A good one on one player, his acceleration which helps him get past defenders and has helped him gain him a regular first team spot in the FC Goa side since the first season. Mandar has also represented the India U-23 side at the national level, with his skills constructing Goa a lot of goal scoring opportunities.
The homegrown player has even been seen switching back to defend at times when his side needed him. And as a result of his impressive performances, Mandar flew to Spain as he was presented a two week trial period at La Liga outfit Villareal CF. Though he is still maturing to reach his peak level, manager Zico will be banking on his performances one again in the third season.
Right wing-back: Romeo Fernandes
Arguably Romeo Fernandes has been the best Indian player for FC Goa in all these years. Representing his state, Romeo wears his heart on his sleeve every time he steps up on the football pitch and has been a fan favourite. A product of the Dempo youth system, Romeo has risen up through the ranks with his performances. At one point in time, he had no financial support to fulfil his dreams but is hard work has now made him a crucial member of FC Goa’s squad.
Given the right wing position, Romeo’s pace, dribbling ability and trickery have seen him score and create important goals for his side. As a result of his glimpses shown in the ISL, Romeo was rewarded with a trial spell at Brazilian heavyweights Atletico Paranaense, becoming the first Indian to play in South America. With Romeo’s creativity and the attacking depth that he brings to the side, FC Goa will once again be reliant on his services.
Midfield
Central midfield – Joffre
A youth product of Barcelona’s renowned La Masia academy, FC Goa have a favourite in the central midfield position with the experienced Joffre Mateu Gonzales. Having played for a couple of Spanish clubs earned him a move to Atletico de Kolkata as he clinched the ISL title with fellow countryman Spaniard Antonio Lopez Habas in the inaugural season itself. Having moved to Goa the next year, the left-footed midfielder established himself in the heart of FC Goa’s midfield, initiating a number of counter attacks.
Responsible for linking up the play, Joffre took no time to adapt to new manager Zico’s plans. His late goal in the final last year almost made it 2 ISL titles in a row for him until Stevin Mendoza's last minute heroics spoiled the party for FC Goa. And now without key player Leo Moura, FC Goa will hope that Joffre fills in the Brazilians shoes for this season of the ISL.
Central midfield – Fulganco Cardozo
Fulganco Cardozo is another homegrown talent, who is one of the latest signings for the FC Goa squad this season. Having represented many reputed Goan clubs such as the likes of Vasco SC, Sporting Goa, Salgaocar and Dempo, Fulganco is comfortable with the right back position. He is even able to shift to a more advanced left-midfielder role that provides Zico more flexibility of making squad customizations.
One of the hottest youth prospects in Goa currently, Fulganco has also made one appearance for the Blue Tigers against Laos in June 2016, scoring in his debut match as India easily triumphed over the opposition. Apart from that, Cardozo has scored the only goal for FC Goa in the friendlies they played in Brazil. After missing out on him in the first two seasons, Zico will look to make the best out of the youngster's versatility.
Defensive midfield – Richarlyson
Richarlyson Barbosa is one of the recent Brazilian summer signings for FC Goa along with Rafael Dumas and Trindade Goncalves this season. Richarlyson has the most decorated resume from all of them having played for the likes Brazilian heavyweights such as Sao Paulo and Atletico Mineiro for over a decade. And not only that, Richarlyson even made 2 appearances for the Brazilian national team in 2008.
His trophy cabinet consists of the Brazilian League trophy, Club World Cup, Campeonato Mineiro and Copa Libertadores. Given his ample experience, Zico could not wait to bring him to India and signed him for FC Goa. The 33-year-old is a versatile player and while he plays predominantly in front of the defence, Richarlyson can also slot in comfortably in the heart of the defence or at left full back.
Zico used Bikramjit Singh as a holding midfielder last season who was still taking time grappling the position. And now with the experience of Richarlyson, the Brazilian will be an asset to Zico's team during the ISL and will help the progression of this younger countrymen and Indian players as well.
Attack
Striker – Robin Singh
FC Goa might have lost the Nigerian goalscoring machine Dudu but have found their perfect replacement for him in Indian striker Robin Singh. Robin Singh’s eye for goal, shooting ability and top class finishing has seen him transform into one of India’s most lethal strikers in the modern game.
After being picked up by Delhi Dynamos in the second season of the ISL, Robin topped the score charts for Roberto Carlos’ side with four goals. He also opened the scoring for Delhi at their home leg when they faced FC Goa in the semifinals last season. Now that the 26-year-old joins the Gaurs, FC Goa fans will be eager to see if Robin Singh can lead them to their first ever ISL title.
Striker – Reinaldo
A youth product of CR Flamengo in Brazil, Reinaldo da Cruz Oliveira is the best-attacking option in front of goal alongside Robin Singh. Having also played for Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain, Reinaldo brings in a wealth of experience having played in various countries around the globe, such as Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Italy and France. Having signed for Gaurs last season, Reinaldo went on to prove his worth, emerging as FC Goa’s leading goal scorer with seven goals in eleven appearances.
His stunning hat-trick against Kerala Blasters in a 5-2 win was one of his best moments. At 37 years of age, Reinaldo still has the ability to find the back of the net with his presence putting FC Goa ahead. And now having joined manager Zico once again for the third season, Reinaldo will be the leading strike force for the men in blue.
