FOOTBALL
World Cup: Will confident Morocco upset Spain?
Neighbours Morocco and Spain will battle it out for a spot in the World Cup quarterfinals at the Education City Stadium on Tuesday evening.
The 2010 world champions had to stay content with a runner-up spot in Group E after dropping points in their last two group matches against Germany and Spain.
Morocco beat the odds to claim the top spot of Group F ahead of Croatia, Belgium, and Canada.
Morocco started their World Cup campaign with a goalless draw against Croatia.
The African side would regret walking away from that tie with only a point as they crafted the better chances against an uninspiring Croatia side. But Walid Regragui’s troops made no mistake in the next two matches as they dispatched Belgium and Canada comfortably to seal the Group F top spot.
Dubbed the golden generation of Morocco, the current crop of Morocco players features many talents who ply their trades in the highly competitive European leagues.
The Atlas Lions will look to harness the youthful energy and newfound confidence to write another glorious chapter in their football history.
Morocco will make it to their first-ever World Cup quarterfinal if they get the better of Spain on Monday.
Many believe that the defeat against Japan came as a blessing in disguise for Spain, as they will be playing against Morocco instead of Croatia in the round of 16.
But Spain manager Luis Enrique will be wary of the fact La Roja had to rely on a last-gasp Iago Aspas equaliser to scrape a point against Morocco four years ago in Russia when the teams came to grips in the group stages.
Enrique will feel a sense of complacency has set in after Spain began their World Cup journey emphatically.
Spain followed up their 7-0 thumping of Costa Rica with a 1-1 draw against a struggling Germany.
In their final group match, they lost to Japan. Had Costa Rica managed to hold on to their lead against Germany, Spain would have packed their bags and gone home by now.
So, Spain have little reason to believe they have an easy game awaiting them at the Education City Stadium.
Team News
Yassine Bounou returned underneath the crossbar for Morocco against Canada after missing the Belgium match because of illness.
He should expect to keep his place in the lineup against Spain.
Achraf Hakimi did not take part in full training on Saturday, but his ankle problem is not severe enough to keep him out of the game.
Sofiane Boufal, Hakim Ziyech, and Sofyan Amrabat should also get recalls, despite skipping training on Saturday.
Luis Enrique allowed Dani Olmo to take a day off after putting in a gruelling shift against Japan. César Azpilicueta also did not train on Friday, but a calf injury forced his absence.
David Raya was also nowhere to be seen in training photos.
However, the Spanish camp did not disclose why their second-choice keeper did not train.
Ferran Torres and Jordi Alba can expect to walk back into the starting XI after Nico Williams and Alejandro Balde failed to convince against the Blue Samurais.
Our Prediction
Morocco have a formidable backline and also the ability to hit Spain on the counter.
We believe the match will end goalless, but Spain’s superior squad depth will help them edge Morocco in extra time.
We believe Spain will nick a 1-0 victory after 120 minutes of football.
Date: 6 December
Kickoff: 8:30 PM IST
Venue: Education City Stadium
FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan! FC Goa secured a memorable 2-1 victory against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League at Fatorda Stadium. This high-stakes encounter ended Mohun Bagan’s unbeaten streak, marking a significant moment in the league.
Brison Fernandes opened the scoring for FC Goa in the 13th minute, assisted by Borja Herrera. His shot deflected off Mohun Bagan’s Tom Aldred, giving Goa an early lead. Despite pressing attacks, Mohun Bagan failed to capitalize on opportunities during the first half, keeping FC Goa ahead.
The second half saw Mohun Bagan equalize through Dimitrios Petratos’ penalty, awarded after a handball by Armando. With the match level, momentum shifted briefly in favor of Mohun Bagan. However, FC Goa struck again in the 68th minute as Brison Fernandes headed in Herrera’s precise cross, sealing the lead and eventual victory for the home side. FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan!
FC Goa’s defense stood firm during the closing stages, with Sandesh Jhingan and Odei Onaindia effectively countering Mohun Bagan’s attempts to find another equalizer. This win elevated FC Goa to third place in the league standings with 22 points from 12 matches, showcasing their strong form this season.
The match underscored FC Goa’s resilience and tactical discipline, while Mohun Bagan will aim to bounce back from this setback. Fans were treated to an exciting contest, reflecting the competitive spirit of the league.
FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant! The Indian Super League (ISL) promises an intense showdown as FC Goa faces league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant this Friday at Fatorda. With playoff positions at stake, both teams are set for a thrilling encounter.
FC Goa aims to break into the top three with a win, continuing their unbeaten six-match streak. Striker Armando Sadiku leads the Goa attack with eight goals in ten matches, while midfielders Iker Guarrotxena and Dejan Drazic add creativity. Young goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari’s three clean sheets in five matches provide defensive assurance. FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant!
Mohun Bagan, atop the league with 26 points, has relied on Jamie Maclaren’s scoring consistency and Greg Stewart’s midfield mastery. Although Stewart will miss the match due to injury, the Mariners boast six clean sheets this season, anchored by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith.
Both teams have impressive records, with Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season. The match could define playoff aspirations as Mohun Bagan aims to solidify their position, and Goa seeks to climb the rankings. Fans anticipate a tightly contested game between two strong sides showcasing Indian football’s growing quality.
The match is critical for both teams’ playoff aspirations. FC Goa looks to capitalize on their home advantage and attacking prowess, while Mohun Bagan seeks to extend their dominance at the top of the league. With FC Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season, the battle promises to be a showcase of quality football.
Fans are eagerly anticipating this high-stakes clash, which could significantly impact the league’s playoff picture. Both teams have shown resilience and skill, ensuring a thrilling contest.
The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 features a highly anticipated clash between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and FC Goa at Fatorda’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday. Both teams come into this encounter in solid form, aiming to strengthen their campaigns at a crucial juncture in the season.
Mohun Bagan leads the standings with an unbeaten streak, registering seven wins and a draw in ISL 2024-25. Their defensive strength is evident, having kept six clean sheets. FC Goa, sitting fourth on the table, boasts a dynamic attacking style, with nine different players contributing goals this season.
This battle between Mohun Bagan’s resolute defense and Goa’s attacking versatility promises to be a high-stakes showdown. Goa seeks to overcome the league leaders and secure vital points to narrow the gap. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan looks to extend its dominance and consolidate its position at the top.
Key players to watch include Mohun Bagan’s defensive stalwarts and Goa’s offensive playmakers. Both sides have demonstrated their capability to adapt to challenging situations, setting the stage for a thrilling contest. With the mid-season point approaching, the match carries significant implications for both teams’ playoff aspirations.
Fans can expect an intense, action-packed game as two of the ISL’s top teams vie for supremacy. Mohun Bagan’s strategic discipline will be tested against Goa’s creative and relentless attacks. This matchup is a must-watch for football enthusiasts, showcasing the best of Indian football talent.
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