MARGAO
Goa head coach Charles D'Souza described Friday's match against Kerala in the 77th National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy (Group A) final round as a crucial and important for the team at Golden Jubilee Stadium, Yubia in Arunachal Pradesh.
Goa will look to put their opening match heartbreak against host Arunachal Pradesh behind them. Goa will aim for first win after a 3-3 draw against Arunachal Pradesh while Kerala are motivated after securing 3-1 against Assam in the previous match. Goa currently have one point from the first match.
“We have an important match against Kerala. Our goal is to return to the top of the table. Our focus is currently on the match against Kerala in the league, and I hope that the team is ready for it, with all the players in optimal condition,” said Dias.
"We must work as one team to secure the three points.”
Dias noted that the players’ morale is high, and said: “Everyone within the team understands the magnitude of the responsibility, especially with Goa having several significant upcoming challenges."
The coach said that facing Kerala was difficult for his team but was hoping for a positive result. “We look forward to providing a good performance and achieving a positive result, and continuing the results Our players are ready to give a good show and I have confidence in their abilities to provide what is required and always achieve the best for Goa ,” added Dias whose team have enjoyed the advantage as they beat Kerala to top the Group when Goa hosted the championship.
The Sesa Football Academy coach believes he has to get his tactics right to strengthen his team’s chances of recording win.
“Everyone in this competition is mentally prepared, and that’s why we have to focus on improving the tactical aspects of our game. We need to make improvements when playing at this stage of the tournament and the tactical aspects should be well covered. Making tactical decisions involves avoiding or pressuring strong teams and ensuring that every player gets what they deserve. Each team needs thorough preparation, both mentally and physically, to endure playing for 90 minutes,” he explained.
He added that his side must be prepared to fight to the end given their opponents’ ability to stay alive in matches. “The focus has to be big,” said Dias whose team want to reach the semifinal.
