The third match in Hero Indian Super League featured Delhi Dynamos FC and FC Pune City. To everyone’s surprise, Delhi’s marquee signing Alessandro Del Piero did not feature in their starting line-up. Pune’s David Trezeguet though started the proceeding upfront. Out of the 22 men on the pitch, Pune’s left back Souvik Ghosh was the only U-23 player.
The first half witnessed an evenly poised game between the two sides who also shared an equal ball possession. Delhi Dynamos had the better chances in the attacking third. Right winger Francis Fernandes and Danish captain Mads Junker missed some easy chances. Pune City’s goalkeeper Emanuele Belardi made some commendable saves. In the 37th minute, Alessandro Del Piero was brought into the game in place of ineffective Danish striker Morten Skuobo.
FC Pune City’s marquee striker, David Trezeguet did not get much support from his midfielders. The team played in a 4-1-3-2 formation with Greek World Cupper, Kostas Kastrounis playing in a defensive midfield role. All eyes were on India international Lenny Rodrigues and Ashutosh Mehta, but they failed to provide any quality assist to the legendary French striker.
The second half was almost a repeat show of what happened in the first half. Delhi kept on dominating without any fruitful effect. Alessandro Del Piero was superb but failed to convert. He was eventually named the Hero of the Match. Delhi’s late substitute Gustavo Dos Santos got the best opportunity of the match in the second half. His shot had hit the post and came back.
Overall, ISL witnessed its first draw match at the national capital. The two marquee signings were contrasting in their display. While Del Piero showed us his impeccable class with his brilliant skills and touches, David Trezeguet was just a shadow of his past. Pune’s major concern will be their underperforming midfield and an out of form David Trezeguet.
Lineups
Delhi Dynamos FC: Hout, Singh, Ali, Raymakers, Ghosh, Mulder, Fernandes, Herrero, Junker, Skuobo, Malswamtulunga
FC Pune City: Belardi, Ravanan, Cirillo, Magliocchetti, Park, Gurung, Maithani, Mehta, Rodriguez, Trezeguet, Kastrounis
