ISL: Punjab has its task cut out against Goa

Punjab FC seeks improved goal-scoring as they face FC Goa in a crucial ISL clash at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

Punjab FC will aim to show more precision in front of goal when it clashes with FC Goa in the Indian Super League (ISL) at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on Monday. The northern outfit, which plays its home matches in the national capital, missed a slew of chances in its 1-1 draw against NorthEast United (NEUFC) last week.

While the performance of the defensive unit was steady against NEUFC, the lack of cutting edge in the attacking third was apparent. With just one win and a draw in three matches, Punjab is currently eighth in the 14-team league table.

Goa will start the encounter as the favourite. It is in fourth spot with eight points, thanks to two wins and as many draws from four games.

“From our side, we have to continue to maintain a good defensive line and limit the dangerous situations close to our box. We keep working on creating chances. Hopefully, we will be better with our decision-making and finishing and manage to score goals,” Punjab coach Panagiotis Dilmperis said during a virtual media interaction on Sunday.

For Punjab, there is uncertainty over the availability of midfielder Nikhil Prabhu and winger Muhammad Suhail due to injuries. “It is 50-50 whether both will be fit enough to play,” Dilmperis informed.