Panaji
Ahead of a vital match against Mohammedan SC in Kolkata on Saturday evening, FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez spoke on his team's disappointing season opener, where they lost to Jamshedpur FC.
When asked about the selection of Malsawmtluanga for the upcoming match, Marquez highlighted his commitment to player development. He stated, “It’s not a surprise if you know me; I always discuss player choices. Malsawmtluanga is one of those players with a bright future. Our development team has shown great progress, especially after winning the Durand Cup last season.”
Reflecting on the loss to Jamshedpur FC, Marquez expressed frustration at his team's inability to capitalize on early chances. “In the first half, we had clear opportunities to lead the game. I believe we should have been ahead by two or three goals. However, we made mistakes, and it was disappointing to see those repeat after five years of similar experiences,” he said. He acknowledged that while the other team made smart substitutions, FC Goa struggled to maintain control and failed to respond effectively when Jamshedpur scored their second goal.
Marquez was asked about missing key players due to injury, and he replied, “This question comes up only when we lose. Injuries are always a concern, but they weren't the primary reason for our defeat. We need to better understand the game situation and adjust our play accordingly.” He emphasized the importance of staying focused and managing the game effectively.
Discussing the upcoming match against Mohammedan SC, Marquez noted the challenges ahead. “Every game is tough. The schedule is set, and we must face all teams. We are aiming for a win against Mohammedan, and after that, we will turn our attention to East Bengal FC,” he stated.
He also commented on his team’s overall performance, suggesting that the lack of teamwork was more about understanding game situations rather than a deficiency in collaboration. “The first game of the season is always tricky. We need to play intelligently to maximize our chances,” he explained.
Marquez concluded by addressing concerns about his players’ contributions in the first match, noting that while Tyson performed well, others did not meet expectations. “We need everyone to step up and contribute to the team's success,” he added.
