MARGAO
India centre back Michel Castanha said her team-mates are left devastated after Gokulam Kerala were barred from playing in the AFC Women's Club Championship due to the FIFA ban on All India Football Federation.
"We were really disappointed when we were removed from the AFC Women's Club Championship in Tashkent following the FIFA ban. It was heartbreaking and we are forced to return to India for no fault of ours," the Curtorim-born player said.
"I feel all the hard work and sacrifices made by the team over the 60 days went up in smoke," Castanha told 'The Goan' over telephone from Taskhent on Sunday.
Looking back at the team's dream, the Goan defender said, "This year was like an emotional roller coaster, full of nightmares and downs. But, to be honest, we really prepared hard for the championship but now have to return home disappointed.
"I reckon this year the squad was full of self-belief and determination. There were a lot of learnings involved, and taught us invaluable life lessons," Castanha said.
