MINERVA PUNJAB FC have assembled a great squad this season and have rectified various problems that saw them finish bottom of the league table on their debut last season.
Indian Arrows, a project revived by the All India Football Federation, aims to groom the Under 17 and Under 18 national team players at the top division of the country.
Minerva Punjab FC so far have played two games. An opening draw and win against NEROCA FC were the results. Arrows, played Chennai City FC in their opener and comprehensively beat them by three goals.
The Indian Arrows had a swift flow in their passing and Chennai City never really tested their defence. Although there were a few balls that opened up the defence, for the most part, Arrows defence kept their shape well. The flanks were and wing backs were very much active in the game. This is a good style of play to distribute the attack from various sides.
Minerva in the two matches saw Chencho attracting a lot of the ball possession and man-marking. But as any player who does have a man-marking set on him, will do the obvious, change position. Chencho is vital for the attack of Minerva and could expect a similar strategy to shut Checho down. Arrows on the other hand, will deal with a much more physically strong team and may opt for a cautious approach unlike the speedy attack.
Aniket Jadhav, who got the brace in the first game, won't be allowed too much space as he got in the previous game. The presence of players like Lago, Aidara and Dano will the hurdles Aniket and the other midfielders will face. For Minerva, the good runs of Ambekar helped add the attack of the team. It will be a test for a young side like Arrows get their passing game against going against Minerva.
The match kicks off at 8 pm tomorrow (December 4, 2017) at Bambolim, Goa.