'It'll be difficult for them...' - Sergio Lobera before AFC Cup home game against Central Coast Mariners

Odisha FC boss Sergio Lobera also stressed on the rest the team has got for this clash.

Odisha FC are scheduled to compete against Central Coast Mariners in the second leg of the inter-zonal semi-final of AFC Cup 2023-24 at the Kalinga Stadium on March 14, 2024. 

Despite the advantage of playing on their home ground, the Indian club faces a significant challenge after suffering a 4-0 loss to the Australian outfit in the first match. Winning the upcoming match by a substantial margin presents a formidable task to the Kalinga Warriors.

Ahead of the upcoming match, the pre-match press conference was graced by the presence of Odisha FC’s head coach, Sergio Lobera, and player Diego Mauricio. They expressed the team’s confidence and outlined their strategic approach for the upcoming game.

Approach towards the game 

Odisha FC must adopt an aggressive playing style in order to secure a victory with a significant margin. Otherwise, their qualification for the next round will remain uncertain, even if they win the match.

Sergio Lobera said, “They are one of the best teams in Australia. They have also won the A-League last year. Although the first match was disappointing for us, we need to have belief in ourselves and everything is possible in football. I will just say that we are ready to compete against one of the strong teams.”

Focus on the complete team

Undoubtedly, Central Coast Mariner possess some of the most skilled players, as evidenced in their recent match against Odisha FC.

When asked about focusing on particular players, the mentor replied, “Yes they have some good players. But our focus is on the whole team. It will be a mistake if we focus on one or two players of their team. And it will be difficult for them to compete here in India.”

Believe in the team

Coach Sergio Lobera firmly stated about having faith in his team and that they can turn the game from any situation as they had already turned the table once to secure a place in the inter-zonal semi-finals. 

“We have shown everyone that we can compete at the highest level. Last time, our travel was not ideal, so we couldn’t prepare well. This time, we had time and rest as well. We just need to be more clinical when we get our chances,” he said.

Partnership with Roy Krishna

Roy Krishna and Diego Mauricio have been the best players for Odisha FC up front. Their performance will be key for their success in this clash. 

When asked about the preparation with Roy Krishna for the upcoming match, Diego Mauricio said, “We had a good conversation ahead of the game. I would say, we have some good players in the team. We are very positive about the next game and will give our best.”

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