Losing key players forced us to rethink our strategy, says Ivan Vukomanovic after Mohun Bagan triumph

Ivan Vukomanovic also shed light on the impact Pritam Kotal has on the youngsters of the squad.

Kerala Blasters concluded their year on a high, propelling them to the top of the ISL table, courtesy a resounding 1-0 victory over Mohun Bagan at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. The match witnessed Dimitrios Diamantakos finding the net for the Blasters in the ninth minute, sealing a triumph that left the fans elated.

In the post-match press conference, head coach Ivan Vukomanovic shared his thoughts on this significant win and the team’s aspirations for the future.

Coach Vukomanovic on the positive finish

Reflecting on the year-end victory, Ivan Vukomanovic expressed satisfaction, acknowledging the challenges faced throughout the year. “Well, after everything that’s happened this year, ending it on a positive note feels great. Despite the challenges, injuries, and missing key players, seeing the team’s response in the last three games has been fantastic. We’ve had to adjust our approach due to these hurdles, but finishing the year on top of the table is a nice feeling. There’s a long way to go, but we’re happy with our progress,” he remarked.

Confidence and the long road ahead

Addressing the team’s ambition of lifting the Indian Super League trophy for the first time, Vukomanovic recognized the arduous path ahead.

“It’s a tough road. While some teams have larger budgets, our focus on nurturing young talents remains. We’re fighters aiming for success, never giving up on our goal despite the challenges,” he asserted.

Strategic adaptations and young talents

The conversation shifted to tactical adjustments, particularly against formidable opponents like Mumbai. Ivan Vukomanovic highlighted the necessity of adapting the team’s style, emphasizing defensive organization and transitional play. “Losing key players forced us to rethink our strategy. We focused on teaching the young players to understand tactical situations, finding ways to win despite the challenges,” he explained.

When questioned about the team’s approach after scoring early, the Serbian boss acknowledged the planned strategy. “Managing our energy was crucial due to recent physical games and limited recovery time. We aimed to score but also adopted different strategies considering the circumstances,” he elaborated.

Supporters’ impact and defensive fortification

The coach also attributed a significant portion of the team’s resurgence to the unwavering support of the fans. “Playing in front of our home crowd in Kochi is priceless. Their energy and connection with the team motivate players to give their best on the field,” he acknowledged.

Regarding the inclusion of Pritam Kotal in defense, Vukomanovic praised Kotal’s experience and professionalism. “His inclusion has strengthened our defense significantly. His consistency and leadership serve as an example for younger players,” he concluded.

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