ISL 2017: PREVIEW FC Pune City vs Delhi Dynamos FC - Can Delhi’s loss be Pune’s gain?

ONE TEAM HAS NEVER made it to the playoffs and the other never made it past the playoffs. FC Pune City host Delhi Dynamos FC tonight.

Some striking features about both teams. Delhi Dynamos FC the only Indian Super League team to have toured two countries for their pre-season practice games while FC Pune City the only one not to have gone to any. While there is no guaranteed formula for success that can be derived with regards to the success based on pre-season preparations. But the fact remains it is important to play games prior to start of any tournament.

Goalkeeping for Dynamos definitely looks stronger. Albino and Kaith should start for DDFC and FCPC respectively. Last season, defensively Delhi did not have too many worries as they never fell short of scoring. This season it could be different for the Lions. Pritam Kotal, one of India’s top young defenders should be the star name among Indians in the team. Alongside him will be Cichero, the only foreigner in the defence. Ralte should keep start in this game. Pratik, Munmun, Rowlison and Sajid may see rotation amongst them, so two of them will be seen tonight.

FC Pune, last season had trouble scoring and at the same time let in goals too cheaply. It is all set to change this time around. Adil Khan the man to single-handedly hold many threats for Churchill Brothers last season, is an asset to have. Raphael Gomes and Damir Grgic will provide plenty of cover to a somewhat shaky Kaith.

DELHI’S LOSS IS PUNE’S GAIN

Marcelino, Tebar, Kean Lewis, three of Delhi’s most consistent players are now with FC Pune City. Whether they bring the same impact as the previous season, will be keenly watched by both team’s management. A strong foreign midfield is what the Dynamos possess. Contrastingly FC Pune City’s Indian midfield should be able to pack a punch to fight evenly in the middle.

The front runners of both teams are expected to step up and deliver the smiles for the franchise and fans alike. David, Guyon, Kalu Uche and Chhangte are the finishers for Delhi Dynamos FC. And for FC Pune, Alfaro will be the go-to man for the goals. Alfaro, will be with Marcelino, Diego leading the attack.

Match kicks off tonight at 8:00 pm at Balewadi Stadium.

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