Odisha FC coach Sergio Lobera asks team for repeat of Super Cup performance against FC Goa

New recruit Lenny Rodrigues also shared his feelings on facing former team FC Goa.

Odisha FC is all set to face FC Goa in their next match of Indian Super League (ISL) on February 9, 2024 at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.

Both teams are currently at the top of the points table, with Odisha FC leading the standings. The outcome of the next game will determine the top spot for the following matches. While the Juggernauts will field their strongest lineup to face the Gaurs on their home ground, the visiting team will also aim to maintain their unbeaten streak by securing a victory.

The pre-match press conference was graced by the presence of Odisha FC’s head coach, Sergio Lobera and player Lenny Rodrigues. Both individuals shared valuable insights pertaining to the forthcoming match and elucidated upon their strategic approach towards it.

Extend the gap in the points table

A victory in the upcoming match will further widen the points gap between the two teams to six, solidifying Odisha FC’s commanding position at the top of the table.

Coach Sergio Lobera aims at extending the lead, as he said, “This is our target in the game. We know they have played less games than us, but I’m sure they will be feeling the pressure. If we win the game and get three points then the gap between the teams will be six points. After that the opponent will need to win back to back matches to match our feet.”

About the opponent

FC Goa has proven to be one of the top-performing teams in the current season of the ISL, maintaining an undefeated record. Out of their eleven matches, they have secured victory in eight and have drawn in three.

When asked about facing the Gaurs, coach Sergio replied, “It’s not going to be an easy game against them. We just need to play in the same way we played against them in the Super Cup. But not to forget that, it’s a different competition and they will have different numbers of foreign players in the team this time.”

About the squad

Odisha will field their complete squad, as there are no injury concerns or suspensions to worry about.

“We have the full squad ready for the match as there is no injury concern or suspensions. The only concern was three games in seven days. After this match also we will get 15 days of break then will be back again for three games in seven days”, Sergio added. 

Facing your former club

Before joining the Odisha FC, Lenny Rodrigues was a part of FC Goa. When asked about facing his former club, the defensive midfielder replied, “I’m excited to play against my former team. The best thing over here is to play under such a coach who has been very helpful for me and all the youngsters in the team. I know, tomorrow’s match will be tough but we are ready and will get the three points for the team.”

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