Federation Cup Special: The Heroes For Salgaocar SC

Salgaocar SC lifted the Federation Cup 2011 title deservedly on Thursday which underlined their domination on Indian football under Karim Bencherifa’s brief tenure after having won the I-League last season.

From their stoic captain Luciano Sobrosa to their goal-machine Chidi Edeh, the Goans were heads above the rest competing in the Cup. Goal.com looks at five Salgaocar heroes who led the ‘Soccer Kings’ to glory.

Luciano Sobrosa – Terminator:

The fact that Salgaocar only conceded one goal in the tournament, that too by virtue of a dubious penalty decision in the final against East Bengal, speaks volumes for their captain, Luciano Sobrosa who was at the heart of the impervious defence. The Brazilian led by example and was termed as ‘Mr. Salgaocar SC’ for his displays. He not only played his part to perfection in the central defensive position but also, organized and held the defence line together. His height and positioning was the reason why the champions looked so comfortable against the likes of Mumbai FC and East Bengal, who played long balls and looked dangerous on set pieces. His pace and ability to be at the right place at the right time kept out the likes of John Menyongar, Haokip and Eugeneson Lyngdoh from Lajong, who passed the ball quick and had beaten the likes of Mohun Bagan on the base of their movement earlier in the tournament.

Karanjit Singh - The Wall:

The Indian international was excellent for the whole of the Federation Cup campaign. His semi-final saves from Shilllong Lajong’s Boathang Haokip and Zenith’s efforts were the ones of the top most quality and were responsible for making Salgaocar progress. Throughout the tournament, the 25-year old was found to be quick on his feet and provided assurance to his defence inside the box. He was very good in the air and dealt with all the crosses that came his way to perfection. His composure proved to be the key against Mumbai FC and East Bengal inside the penalty area.

Rocus Lamare - Salgaocar's Engine:

With Tomba Singh playing as a sweeper in front of the defence, Rocus often provided Karim an extra attacking option. Each time he could come forward to support the strikers, he seemed really good. An example of that was his goal against HAL Bangalore when he latched onto Francis Fernandes’ pass from the right and drilled it low into the far corner. His crossing and set-piece delivery from corners and freekicks was top class and one of the main reasons as to why so many of the Salgaocar players got on the end of his crosses. His ability to spread the ball wide and track back saw Salgaocar play better as a team, both in attacking and defensive sense.

Chidi Edeh - Goal-Machine:

He was on a dream run in the Federation Cup and it looks like he is destined to be to have a top season holding the front line for Salgaocar. Rejected by Mohun Bagan last season but now, taken in by Karim Bencherifa, Chidi has been absolutely brilliant. Most knew of his quality, but only some thought that the forward could make the sort of impact like the one he has ended up making, so fast. He combined expertly with Ryuji Sueoka on several occasions and helped Salgaocar SC to reach glory. His physical presence always caused uncertainties in most defences. However the Nigerian is languid when the possession is not with his side and doesn't work hard to get it back; something which was evident in the final when Bencherifa was seen ordering the player to run.