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SFA Makes an Impactful Debut in I-League 3, All Eyes on Play-Offs!

The first phase of the I-League 3 held from 3^rd Sept’ to 11^th Sept’24 has been nothing short of spectacular for Sesa Football Academy (SFA). From come from behind draws, injury time screamers, to decisive wins under pressure , the Team’s foray in the ‘big league’ has been laced with belief, skill and a pronounced sense of purpose. The outcome has been that SFA have , belied all expectations to top Pool ‘B’ and stormed into the Playoffs of I-League ’24 in their very first attempt & are now all set to make their presence felt at the Naihati Stadium, Kolkata, from 26^th September onwards , when the play-offs commence.

Each match in Stage 1 of I-League 3 has been a commentary on the developmental journey of SFA in the past year. Their performance at the Goa Pro League and now continuing the same form in the I-League 3 speaks oif a mature system in place and of a set-up which has perfected the art of building formidable teams by maximising the potential of the players.

The I-League Group Stage commenced on 3^rd Sep at The Dempo Football Stadium, incidentally SFA were the designated hosts for the Stage as well. The opening match against Maharashtra Oranje FC was always going to be a tough one, but SFA not only managed to score an early Goal through newcomer Savlon but dominated in large parts. The experienced opposition scored and took the lead against the run of play but then SFA displayed the defining traits of Goan football – resilience & flair – defied heavy rains, a slushy pitch and a determined opposition & equalised with an injury-time last minute spectacular free-kick to equalise and salvage a vital point. It was this moment which defined SFA’ strong mental approach & subsequent efforts in the Group phase.

The second game against Kerala United FC was a tough one and SFA did well to dominate against their fancied rivals but failed to find the net. The game ended in a draw but SFA also found themselves without their star striker Clencio, who suffered a hamstring injury. By this time the Pool was split wide open by the progress of the other teams and SFA were at the bottom of the Pool with 2 points.

When SFA met Garhwal Heroes FC it was a must win situation and that too against a team which had gained momentum coming into the match. Conceding a goal to trail at half-time, SFA clawed back on the back of the penalty scored by newcomer Shlok Tiwari & a brilliant winner by  Sankalp Kankonkar. SFA showed that they were hitting the straps well and finally seemed comfortable in the ‘big’ league. The come-from-behind win was typical of the resilience SFA is known for and had now placed them back in contention for the play-offs.

The final day of the group stage saw four teams other than Maharashtra Oranje in the fray for the two play-off spots. SFA were pitched against the Poll toppers & the formidable Dalbir FA, who were on a 2-match winning streak. Displaying resolve and purpose, SFA seized the initiative early when newcomer Sachidanand scored the opener , only to surrender the lead immediately. Regrouping, SFA once again took the lead through Sachidanand and held on to it despite pressure from the opposition. SFA had not only won the game but also topped the Pool to storm into the Play-offs of the I-League.

The remarkable feat was fashioned through some deft tactical play by Coach Charles Dias, especially in the manner in which he blunted the march of Grahwal Heroes and carved out a famous come-from-behind win and then in the final game, the way SFA kept both flanks active ensured that Dalbir FA were unable to build their own attacking game. The quick re-orientation despite the loss of Clencio bodes well for the attacking depth of SFA.

Speaking on the accomplishment Coach Charles Dias said “Throughout the first phase of the I League 3, I emphasized the need for players to remain alert and proactive. This focus on situational awareness involved continuous assessment of their own strengths and weaknesses, as well as those of their opponents. By encouraging players to read the game in real-time, the coaching team fostered an environment where tactical adjustments could be made on the go, allowing the team to remain competitive even in challenging situations. I am particularly satisfied by the performance of the newcomers, which shows that they have integrated well. It is to the credit of the entire team that this achievement has been made possible.”

Coach Charles also clarified that the coaching staff has conditioned the players to identify shifts in the opponent’s formation or play style, enabling them to counteract effectively. This adaptability proved invaluable, particularly in high-pressure scenarios where quick thinking can make all the difference.

The recent additions of Clive Miranda in the stopper back position and Russel Vaz in central midfield, alongside the dynamic strikers Shlok Tiwari, Savlon Fernandes, and Sachidanand has strengthened SFA’s core. This mix of experience and youthful energy enhances the team’s competitiveness and adaptability on the field.

As SFA prepares for the playoffs, the synergy among these players will be crucial in navigating the challenges ahead. With their focus on teamwork and strategic play, Sesa Football Academy is poised to make a significant impact in the tournament. The emphasis on new signings, homegrown talent, upgrading of support & tech facilities is in-line with SFA’ aim to contribute to Goan and Indian football as part of its all-encompassing #LETSFOOTBALLFORINDIA initiative.

As SFA prepares to take the field from 26^th Sept to 4^th Oct’24, the anticipation is palpable, with the team ready to capitalize on their hard-earned momentum and prove their mettle in Kolkata.