FC Goa Aims for Consecutive Wins Against SC Delhi in ISL Clash
Match Preview: FC Goa vs. SC Delhi
FC Goa is set to pursue their second consecutive victory as they face Sporting Club Delhi in Match 15 of the Indian Super League 2025-26 at the PJN Stadium in Goa on Thursday, February 26.
After a shaky start with a 1-1 draw against ISL newcomers Inter Kashi, FC Goa bounced back with a solid 2-0 win over Mohammedan Sporting in Kolkata. Conversely, SC Delhi began their season with a 0-2 defeat to Bengaluru FC and suffered a 1-4 loss to East Bengal, despite initially taking the lead.
Goa's Camp: Cautious Optimism
Ahead of the home match, FC Goa's head coach Manolo Marquez expressed, "This will not be an easy match. SC Delhi created opportunities in both of their games. We must disregard statistics once we step onto the field. If we fail to perform, we will encounter difficulties."
Midfielder Ayush Chhetri, who has become a key player in the FC Goa lineup, remarked, "Having played alongside foreign players for the past three years, I've gained valuable insights. This season, I'm applying those lessons and taking on more responsibility during matches."
SC Delhi's Determination Despite Struggles
The youthful SC Delhi squad has showcased entertaining football under coach Tomasz Tchorz, with early indications of their desire to establish a distinct playing style.
Tchorz commented, "Goa is always a tough opponent defensively. They maintain a compact formation and make the field feel smaller at Fatorda, limiting access between the lines. We have strategies to penetrate their defense and exploit spaces behind them. We have analyzed the game thoroughly and will prepare as effectively as possible."
SC Delhi aims to build on their early attacking efforts displayed against current league leaders East Bengal, seeking a favorable result in what promises to be a challenging match.
Coach on Squad Development
Addressing the team's growth and recent defensive issues, Tchorz stated, "We are a new team, and developing chemistry takes time. While we have conceded goals, this is part of our journey. We are striving to become more compact, aggressive in exploiting spaces, and improve our communication. I believe that with patience and faith, positive results will follow."
Forward Focused on Team Improvement
In alignment with his coach's resolve, SC Delhi forward Alan Saji shared, "After my injury last year, it was challenging to be away from the game. Making my ISL debut and getting playing time is significant for me. I appreciate the coach's trust, and I'm dedicated to scoring goals and aiding the team's improvement in every match."
As the home team seeks to leverage their advantage, the visitors are eager to convert their attacking potential into a comprehensive performance, making this fixture one that could hinge on narrow margins.