Indian centre-back Muhammad Hammad, and captain of Real Kashmir, is set to sign a multi-year contract with FC Goa, a team in the Indian Super League after the conclusion of the current season.
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Solidifying Defense: Mohammed Hammad and Jhingan’s Partnership at FC Goa
Muhammad Hammad, the 26-year-old Indian center-back and captain of Real Kashmir, is poised to embark on a multi-year journey with Indian Super League outfit FC Goa once the ongoing season concludes. Throughout the current campaign, Hammad has showcased remarkable consistency as a defender in the I-League, featuring in all 22 matches for Real Kashmir and contributing to 12 clean sheets. As a result, the team currently occupies the third position in the standings with 40 points.
Originally from Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, Hammad joined Real Kashmir in 2017, contributing significantly to the team’s triumph in the I-League second division. Subsequently, he had stints with Jaipur Elite and FC1 before rejoining Real Kashmir on loan for the present season. Moreover, Hammad has represented Jammu and Kashmir in the Santosh Trophy during the 2015-16 season.
FC Goa has encountered defensive challenges in the absence of the injured Indian center-back Sandesh Jhingan. In games where Jhingan was unavailable, the Gaurs secured 12 points from nine matches, managing just two clean sheets. Conversely, with Jhingan in the lineup, the team amassed 24 points from 10 matches, including five clean sheets.
In the upcoming season, FC Goa’s coach, Manolo Marquez, is expected to pair Muhammad Hammad with Sandesh Jhingan in defense. Presently, the Gaur’s defensive line is anchored by Spaniard Odei Onaindia and Nim Dorjee, the latter signed as a temporary replacement for Jhingan until the conclusion of the season.
By teaming up Jhingan and Hammad, FC Goa may free up an opportunity to incorporate an overseas player, thereby bolstering another position on the field.
FC Goa’s Push for Second Place as They Face Hyderabad FC in Playoff Pursuit
Despite already securing a spot in the playoffs with three games left in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 season, FC Goa’s pursuit of greater aspirations persists. Therefore, as they prepare to face Hyderabad FC in their upcoming match on Friday, the Gaurs will be determined to claim all three points.
Currently positioned fourth on the points table, a triumph in this encounter would propel Manolo Marquez and his team past Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Odisha FC, elevating them to second place. This outcome would also align with the sentiments expressed by the Spanish tactician throughout the season.
“I’m sure that this will be a good season for FC Goa. We will remain competitive till the final minute, and we aim to fight for the top honours,” Marquez would often say, when asked about his team’s objectives.
As the Men in Orange make their long-awaited return to the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda after a 22-day absence, anticipation is high. Since their thrilling comeback victory against Bengaluru FC, all eyes are on Goa’s sole representative in the ISL as they persist in their pursuit of the coveted League Shield ahead of the playoffs.
“Hyderabad FC are a dangerous team with a lot of quality. You hear a lot about them fielding mostly young players and only a foreigner in Joao Victor, but they have done well thus far,” FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez said on Thursday while sharing his thoughts on the upcoming game.
“Even in matches that they lost, they troubled opposition teams and always put up a tough fight. Everyone said it would be an easy game for us when we visited them in February but that was not the case.”
“We have a lot of things to ponder about, such as five of our players being on three yellow cards each and facing a risk of suspension. We will see what we can do. Some of them may be benched, some may play – we don’t know yet.”
“We can add nine more points to our tally at this stage – we will try to do that and see how it goes, with regard to other teams (fellow-league contenders),” the 55-year-old added.
FC Goa’s Path to Playoffs and Unbeaten Streak Sets Tone for Crucial Showdown
Despite some recent results that may suggest FC Goa has encountered setbacks, the broader perspective reveals a notable improvement in their overall performance—especially when compared to previous seasons where playoff qualification eluded them.
This time, however, they’ve achieved playoff qualification well ahead of schedule, securing a spot in the knockout stages with four games still to play.
Under Marquez’s leadership, the team has demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination, remaining undefeated in their last four matches. Their upcoming clash with the Nawabs on Friday presents another opportunity to extend this unbeaten streak.
This match will not only be pivotal in maintaining momentum but will also establish the tone for the remainder of their season, as they prepare for more critical fixtures in the weeks ahead.
