MARGAO
Five-time I-League champions Dempo Sports Club will be aiming to bounce back from a string of five consecutive defeats when they face Delhi FC at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Wednesday at 3:30 PM.
Dempo's recent form has been disappointing, with a tough 5-0 loss to Real Kashmir FC. However, they now have an opportunity to redeem themselves and get their I-League campaign back on track when they face Delhi FC.
Currently sitting ninth in the standings with 11 points, Dempo will need to secure a win against 11th-placed Delhi FC to avoid further pressure. Any more slip-ups could put them in a difficult position.
"Our focus is entirely on Delhi FC, and the players are ready to give their best," said Samir Naik, head coach of Dempo Sports Club. "I know it will be a tough match, as both teams are fighting for the three points, given their positions in the standings. But we are determined to do everything we can to secure a win."
Naik continued, “Our preparations have been good, and the team’s physical readiness has improved significantly since the start of the season. I’m happy with the increased self-confidence among the players after some positive results in the league. Both teams have a lot at stake in this game.”
He added, "We’re getting closer to achieving the right balance in the team, and the players are enjoying the football they’re playing. Delhi FC is a strong team, known for their competitive spirit, and we need to focus on what we can offer against them. It’s going to be a tough match, but we’ll give it everything we’ve got to get the result we need."
Naik concluded, "I’m hopeful we can maintain our level of performance in tomorrow’s match and get a result that will make our fans happy."
Delhi FC’s coach, Yan Cheng Law, also emphasized the difficulty of the upcoming match. "Facing Dempo won’t be easy, and we’ll need to give our best to come away with the result we want. But I have full confidence in my players and their ability to continue our good performances," Law said.
"All the players understand the importance of this match and the need to keep winning. As a coach, I’ve worked hard to ensure the team is fully prepared for this challenge. I’m sure they’ll give their all to achieve a positive result," he added.
