MARGAO
As the final round of the 30th Senior Women’s National Football Championship for the Rajmata Jijabai Trophy draws closer, the Goa women’s football team is intensifying its preparations with high hopes and strong momentum behind them.
Head coach Alfred Fernandes is confident his side is ready to take on the challenge, having topped their group unbeaten, scoring 11 goals and conceding just once in the process.
“Our girls are talented and have a strong winning attitude. If they play to their potential, they can compete with and beat any team,” Fernandes said. “We’re preparing well and focusing on our strengths. I’m confident we’ll deliver a solid performance.”
Goa’s well-balanced squad has been a standout feature of their campaign so far, with Pushpa Parab leading the scoring charts with 4 goals, followed by Karishma Shirvoikar with 3. Fernandes praised the team’s depth across all areas, including the bench and goalkeeping department.
“There are no weak links. Our defence, midfield, and attack are all functioning well, and the goalkeepers have done an excellent job. The bench strength gives me flexibility and options,” he added.
Despite the absence of key players Pearl Fernandes and Valaina Fernandes, who are currently in the India national camp, the coach remains optimistic.
Goa is set to face strong competition from West Bengal, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and host state Chhattisgarh in the final round. The State's campaign starts against heavyweight West Bengal on October 1 at the RKM Ashrama Ground in Narainpur, Chhattisgarh.
“Every team in the final round has quality, and we respect that. But our focus is on ourselves ” on giving our best and representing Goa with pride,” Fernandes stated. “Our goal is clear: we want to see Goa’s flag raised in victory.”
