Manolo Marquez praises this player ahead of Mohun Bagan clash in ISL

The Gaurs will be looking to upset the league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant on Friday.

Indian Super League (ISL) club FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez will be eyeing to capture all three points ahead of their clash against Mohun Bagan Super Giant. Matchweek 13 brings two formidable sides head-to-head against each other with both sides aware of the challenge posed by their opponents.

With both teams winning four of their last five league games, the Gaurs and Marquez will have their hands full in the upcoming game. Speaking ahead of the game at the pre-match press conference, the Spaniard praised his team’s resilient nature and the importance of the upcoming match.

With Goa heading for a long break after the game, winning will be vital until their next fixture in January 2025.

Manolo Marquez is upbeat despite their last outing

Reflecting on the team’s recent performances, the Spaniard especially highlighted their competitive spirit. While talking about their last game against Bengaluru, Manolo Marquez stated, “The team is in a good moment, not just in terms of results but also in how we are playing. Even when we aren’t at our best, we remain difficult to beat.”

The Spaniard will be banking on his team’s ability to keep things tight in games this season. Along with Odisha and Bengaluru, the club have let in the third-fewest goals this season. However, they will be coming against the best defensive team in the league and scoring goals will be an area for concern for the Gaurs.

Manolo Marquez recognizes the Mohun Bagan challenge

While talking about the game, Marquez acknowledged Mohun Bagan’s strength, while labeling them one of the strongest sides in the league. He stated, “They have top-quality foreign players and a well-managed dressing room under Juan Ferrando. Mohun Bagan is a favorite to win the shield.”

Despite his claims, he backs his club can secure a positive result before their extended break. Manolo Marquez stated, “We’ve shown we can compete with any team. Tomorrow will be a tough match, but I’m confident we have options to win.”

Marquez heaps praise on Hrithik Tiwari

Manolo Marquez also singled out Hrithik Tiwari, a young goalkeeper, who stepped up for his team in starting goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani’s absence. While talking about the 22-year-old, he stated, “Hrithik is very calm on the pitch, which is great for the team. Every goalkeeper makes mistakes, but the key is how quickly they recover. We’re confident in his abilities.”

A win against Mohun Bagan would be an ideal scenario for Hrithik and his head coach and finishing strongly before the break would help maintain momentum. He stated, “Winning tomorrow would be vital. A long break can be challenging, so going into it with three points would boost the team’s morale.”

While hailing his team’s consistent training efforts, he claimed it was one of the best training periods he has coached since coming to India. With huge claims being made ahead of the big game, the Gaurs understand the importance of getting all three points.

As both sides remain motivated and in strong form, the encounter between FC Goa and Mohun Bagan Super Giant promises to be an intense and closely fought battle with a win cementing their bids as title contenders.

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