Manolo Marquez highlights 'consistency' as key ahead of Bengaluru FC clash

The Gaurs will be keen to do the league double against the Blues.

Indian Super League (ISL) club FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez is eyeing all three points ahead of their must-win game against Bengaluru FC. With a team currently holding a four-game winning streak, the Spaniard acknowledged the efforts of his players and the difficulty in achieving such consistent results in a competitive league.

The 56-year-old admitted his last two games weren’t a reflection of his team and emphasized the need to step up against the Blues. In their previous meeting this season,  the Gaurs humbled the Blues at home with a comprehensive 3-0 win.

Goals from Armando Sadiku, Brison Fernandes and Dejan Drazic courtesy of Bengaluru’s defensive lapses helped them earn all three points.

Manolo Marquez wants good results due to good performances

While reflecting on the narrow win over Hyderabad FC, he emphasized the performances need to improve especially when their goalkeeper was the standout performer. The coach stressed that while winning despite subpar displays is crucial, the club must elevate their overall play to maintain momentum.

Manolo Marquez stated, “As a coach, as a staff, we need to work more on how we can play better. Because now we have two consecutive games, the mentality will be completely different. I am completely sure that we will be very competitive. But we know that every game is different.”

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The Spaniard is aware of Bengaluru’s attacking threat

He highlighted the dangers of the Blues’ resurgence since their 3-0 loss to Goa while noting their diverse attacking options. With players like Sunil Chhetri, Jorge Pereyra-Diaz and Edgar Mendez, the Blues attack could be a huge problem for the Gaurs.

The Spaniard described Chhetri as a model professional while praising his cleverness, timing, and teamwork on the field. Manolo Marquez stated, “He’s the best Indian player in terms of timing. He’s very good in aerial games. And we know he’s very dangerous in quick restart. He’s very clever, his experience. He’s a very, very dangerous player.”

Marquez is not looking too far ahead

Talking about the upcoming fixtures, the Gaurs will be facing a tough run of matches against Mohun Bagan and Odisha FC after matchweek 12. The Spaniard has called for maintaining focus as he advised his men to take it one game at a time.

Manolo Marquez stated, “Last season, at this moment, almost the top five, we were qualified for the top six…The sixth position was still available at the last moment. But the top five, we were…Then we had to fight for the shield the top two and the top four. But this season, I can’t tell you… I wouldn’t bet who will be in the top six. Mohun Bagan, yes. FC Goa, yes. The other teams, I don’t know who will be in the top six.”

FC Goa have a huge injury boost

While providing an injury update about the Gaurs squad, Manolo Marquez confirmed Rowllin Borges will be returning in match week 12. He, however, stated that key players like starting goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani remain sidelined with injury.  The 56-year-old will otherwise have a fully-fit squad at his disposal to select for the Bengaluru FC game.

The game against Bengaluru FC, who are near the top of the table, will be challenging for any returning player. However, Marquez expressed confidence in Borges’ ability to compete and adapt to his comeback.

With the club eyeing to capture the ISL Shield, the Spaniard emphasized the importance of discipline and effort ahead of a demanding schedule. The encounter will not only test FC Goa’s tactical strength but could also shape their trajectory for the remainder of the season.

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