New Delhi: In the second clash of the day, Salgaocar FC will battle against Shillong Lajong in Vasco.


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The Goan giants are in desperate need of full points as they look to avoid relegation.


Salgaocar FC vs Shillong Lajong - Preview


Salgaocar have just nine points from 11 games, two points behind Shillong Lajong, who are placed sixth in the table.


A win will see them move above Shillong Lajong to sixth place and come out of the relegation zone.


Gilbert Oliveira, who missed the last match due to suspension, is back in the side to provide more solidity in the midfield. Cavin Mbarga, meanwhile, will have to take more responsibility upfront in the absence of the main scorer Darryl Duffy. Jackichand Singh, who has been the driving force on the flanks, will steer the attack along with Martin Scott and Oliveira.

Shillong Lajong are coming into this fixture after losing against Bengaluru FC 0-2. That was Lajong's first loss at home in the current I-League season.

The youngsters have formed an integral part of the team this year and a few good performances have come from Vishal Kaith at the goal, Sana Singh and Pritam Kumar on the defence, and from Bipin Singh and Rupert Nongrum on the wings including Samuel Lalmuanpuia upfront.

As for Lajong's foreign recruit, Penn Orji has started in every single I-League match and has played a crucial role at the centre of the park. Brazilian Striker Fabio Penna, who was signed by the Reds this season, has scored only one goal so far.

Lajong's coach Thangboi Singto believes in Fabio's capabilities and feels that the striker can prove to be dangerous once he is fully settled in the match.

Uilliams and Yusuke will not feature in this match due to injury.


(With PTI inputs)