The defending champions FC have named a 26-member squad for the upcoming Durand Cup 2022, which will commence on 16th August. Four first-team players – Hrithik Tiwari, Muhammed Nemil, Phrangki Buam, and Ayush Chhetri will lead the team in the tournament.

FC Goa is placed in Group A of the Durand Cup along with Bengaluru FC, Indian Air Force, Jamshedpur FC, and Mohammedan. The Gaurs will begin their campaign against Mohammedan SC on 16th August at VYBK, Kolkata.

All the matches will be played at three venues – Kolkata, Imphal, and Guwahati. The final of the competition will be played on 18th September.

Dev Team head coach Deggie Cardozo has been bestowed with the responsibility to lead the team’s campaign.

In fact, FC Goa remains unbeaten in the tournament after playing in two seasons – 2019 and 2021.

Deggie Cardozo said, “The Durand Cup is one of the most prestigious football tournaments in the World, and it’s a good opportunity for us to display our potential at the highest level in India.  We have a young squad who are hungry, eager and ready to prove themselves.

“The atmosphere within the team is positive, as we’ve been working hard for quite some time now. In the run-up to the competition, the team played some good matches and the players are in good shape. I’m confident and optimistic about our chances at the Durand Cup. I feel we’re ready to perform to the best of our abilities.”

Meanwhile, FC Goa had beaten Mohammedan Sporting by 1-0 in the 2021 Durand Cup final.

The full squad is as follows:

Goalkeepers: Hrithik Tiwari, Hansel Coelho, Bob Jackson

Defenders: Delzan Passanha, Rayan Roger Menezes, Lesly Rebello (captain), Aditya Salgaonkar, Mallikjan Kalegar, Deeshank Kunkalikar, Salman Faris

Midfielders: Lalremruata HP, Velroy Fernandes, Delton Colaco, Malsawmtluanga, Davis Fernandes, Rayan Menezes, Anthony Fernandes, Ayush Chhetri, Muhammed Nemil, Shannon Viegas

Forwards: Vasim Inamdar, Phrangki Buam, Mevan Dias, Jovial Dias, Salgeo Dias, Jordan Borges