4) Sandesh Jhingan vs Michael Ramos
Sandesh Jhingan has, without a doubt, been the find of the ISL. Rugged and uncompromising at the back, the big central defender is almost reminiscent of Barcelona and Spain legend Carles Puyol in his demeanour on the pitch.
On nights where the Indian defence has looked incredibly suspect, Jhingan has been the only saving face, almost single handed in his effort in keeping the scoreline somewhat respectable in games such as the world cup qualifier against Iran played at The Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bangalore.
In the absence of star striker Hector Ramos, the responsibility to carry the Puerto Rican attack now falls on the shoulders of the inexperienced but highly talented Michael Ramos. Ramos plays professionally in the United States with Premier Development League side Kitsap Pumas and is one of the several bright talents to have been handed a Puerto Rican cap in recent times.
Ramos had a good outing in The Blue Hurricanes’ last international friendly against the Dominican Republic and after being unable to return any goals in his first two games for the national team, will be itching to finally find his scoring shoes when his 114th ranked side take on The Blue Tigers in Mumbai tomorrow.
Sandesh Jhingan at the heart of defence is sure to be entrusted with the responsibility of dealing with this biggest threat to the Indian goal. Mike Ramos taking on Jhingan is without a doubt one of the most intriguing match ups in this game. One for all to savour!
