Goals could flow as Delhi Dynamos host Pune City in capital

After Kolkata and Guwahati, it is Delhi’s turn to welcome the Hero Indian Super League. An exciting fixture is on the cards, as both Delhi Dynamos FC and FC Pune City have displayed an attacking brand of football during their preseason campaigns. Delhi scored a remarkable 19 goals in three games, while Pune were only slightly less prolific with 14 goals in four matches. There is a chance though that this will be a cagier affair, with both teams also boasting strong defences, and keen to not begin on a losing note. But fans will be hoping to see some goals, and marquee players Alessandro Del Piero (Delhi) and David Trezeguet (Pune) besides others, are capable of making a decisive impact on the game.

Mads Junker vs Bruno Cirillo

Thirty-three-year-old Danish striker Mads Junker has immediately found his scoring touch in India. With Del Piero pulling the playmaking strings behind him, Junker can expect to get plenty of chances to hit the target. Tasked with stopping him will be veteran Italian defender Bruno Cirillo, who is one of the key figures in the visiting team. The gangling centre back is a commanding presence and will be difficult to pass. He will, however, have to summon all of his experience to prevent Junker, Morten Skoubo or Manandeep Singh from breaching his citadel.

Wim Raymaekers vs David Trezeguet

Wim Raymaekers has been a key member of the Dynamos’ defence that boasts a perfect record in preseason, not conceding a single goal. But he will have his hands full trying to contain legendary Juventus and France striker Trezeguet, who has a prolific scoring record over the years. Pune City are blessed with an abundance of striking options but Trezeguet is obviously the leading light. The duel between the Frenchman and Belgian will go a long way in determining the outcome of the match.

Alessandro Del Piero vs Mehrajuddin Wadoo

Del Piero has thrilled crowds the world over with his amazing play in a roving position just behind the strikers, the trequartista role, and will keep the Pune defence on their toes, as he is capable of changing the game with a single flash of brilliance. The Pune team will look to Kashmiri defensive midfielder Mehrajuddin Wadoo to keep a check on the charismatic Italian playmaker. His ability to keep Del Piero quiet will be crucial to Pune’s chances of success.

Players to watch

Delhi Dynamos FC:

Kristof van Hout – If the 27-year-old gets the nod to start in goal, all eyes will be on him. Indeed, at 6’10”, Van Hout will literally stand out. His height and wingspan are definite advantages for a keeper. The lanky Belgian will be looking to prove he is up to the task of keeping Trezeguet & Co at bay.

FC Pune City:

Konstantinos Katsouranis – “Kostas” Katsouranis, as the experienced Greek midfielder is known, is making his first foray outside Europe. He is a legend of Greek football for his star turns in the national team’s sensational triumph at the 2004 UEFA Euro championship and the qualifying phase for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which resulted in Greece’s first-ever appearance at the global footballing showpiece. Kostas featured in the 2014 World Cup as well and his mix of combative defending and incisive attacking from a deep-lying midfield role is sure to leave a lasting impression.