MARGAO
Following a successful run in the Santosh Trophy last season, Charles Dias now takes the spotlight as he prepares to lead Goa’s team at the 38th National Games in Uttarakhand, from January 30 to February 7. The women's event will be held from January 29 to February 6.
The competition will feature eight teams divided into two groups of four, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semifinals. The two losing semifinalists will compete for the bronze medal. Goa has been placed in Group A alongside Uttarakhand, Mizoram, and Assam.
Speaking to The Goan Everyday, Dias, who previously led the state to a second-place finish in the Santosh Trophy at Arunachal Pradesh, acknowledged the challenge of leading Goa’s team as head coach.
“We are confident that we will qualify for the semifinals. We’ve worked on all aspects of our game during the preparatory camp at Rosary Ground in Navelim. I focused on both our tactical and technical abilities as a team, and the time spent together has helped the players bond,” Dias shared.
Having coached Sesa Football Academy, Dias noted that while the work with the state team is demanding, it is a different challenge. “I’m working with both mature and young players, and it’s all about team management. My job is to instill self-belief in them and help them focus on winning,” he explained.
The Goa head coach also emphasized the balance of youth and experience in his squad. “We have a strong team, but it will be a tough challenge. However, I am confident the boys will rise to the occasion,” he concluded.
