FC Goa vs. East Bengal FC Prediction: Goa aiming to keep their shield hopes alive

FC Goa will go against East Bengal FC in Gameweek 19 of the Indian Super League at GMC Balayogi Stadium. Goa aiming to keep their shield hopes alive when they clash against East Bengal. Who will win? 

FC Goa has secured victories in their last three encounters against East Bengal FC, marking their lengthiest active winning streak against any team in the ISL.

This also stands as their lengthiest sequence of consecutive victories against any side in the competition. However, they have failed to secure a win in their previous five ISL matches, with three losses and two draws. The last time they experienced a lengthier winless streak was during a six-match run between February and December 2021.

A notable strength of FC Goa this season has been their capacity to assert control over the game once they establish dominance. They have relinquished only five points from winning positions in ISL 2023-24, emphasizing the importance of securing an early lead to gain an advantage in the contest.

Dheeraj Singh (GK), Seriton Fernandes, Nim Dorjee Tamang, Odei Onaindia, Jay Gupta, Rowllin Borges, Borja Herrera, Boris Singh, Mohammad Yasir, Noah Sadaoui, Carlos Martinez

East Bengal FC must improve their performance in away matches to enhance their chances of qualifying for the playoffs in ISL 2023-24. They have suffered defeats in their last two away games.

The last instance of consecutive away defeats was four matches on the road between December 2022 and February 2023. Addressing certain issues in the offensive department is crucial. The attacking trio, led by Cleiton Silva with support from Nandhakumar Sekar and Naorem Mahesh Singh, has been productive so far.

However, the Red & Gold Brigade has scored only one goal in each of their last four games, marking their lengthiest such streak in ISL history. It is imperative that their attacking lineup performs at its best to unsettle the Gaurs from the beginning.

Furthermore, East Bengal FC should focus on better in-game management. They have surrendered a significant 16 points from winning positions in the current campaign.

Additionally, teams under the guidance of Carles Cuadrat have yet to secure a victory against squads coached by Manolo Marquez in the ISL, registering a loss and a draw in two such encounters.

Prabhsukhan Gill (GK), Mohamad Rakip, Aleksandar Pantic, Hijazi Maher, Nishu Kumar, Souvik Chakrabarti, Saul Crespo, Naorem Mahesh Singh, PV Vishnu, Cleiton Silva, Nandhakumar Sekar

Both teams have significant stakes in the upcoming match, with Goa eyeing the ISL League Winners' Shield, while Cuadrat aims to secure a playoff spot by clinching the sixth position. A potential playoff entry would be a delightful conclusion to the season for East Bengal fans, who have already savored success by witnessing their team lift the 2024 Super Cup trophy.