FC Goa's Manolo Marquez outlines 'difficulties' ahead of Odisha FC in ISL

FC Goa are facing a red-hot Juggernauts side in matchweek 15.

Indian Super League (ISL) club FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez addressed the media ahead of his side’s highly anticipated Indian Super League (ISL) encounter against Odisha FC. With both teams unbeaten in their last five games, Marquez acknowledged the challenges Odisha poses but remained confident in his team’s ability to play.  

Ahead of the game at the Kalinga Stadium, Marquez highlighted the Juggernauts’ dominance at home during the pre-match press conference.

With both teams looking to extend their recent unbeaten run, the game promises to be an enthralling contest on Saturday.

Manolo Marquez knows Goa needs to be at their best

Having lost only one game at home this season, the Spaniard knows he has his work cut out for Saturday. However, FC Goa haven’t lost in their last six away games, drawing thrice and winning thrice in the league this season.

While acknowledging his opponents, Marquez stated, “Odisha is a very good team with players who are decisive in set-pieces, counter-attacks, and build-up play. To win this game, we need to play a very good game.” 

ALSO READ: List of Odisha FC coaches and their performance in ISL

A win important to keep pace with Mohun Bagan

The Spaniard also shared his belief in keeping the momentum rolling with teams in the top three spots hitting peak form. During the presser, Marquez reiterated his belief that Mohun Bagan remains the favourite for the ISL Shield, given their squad strength and consistency.

However, he also stated faith in his team, FC Goa and Bengaluru FC to challenge until the end. While echoing his belief in the FC Goa squad, he stated, “But we can promise that we will fight till the end. If we win or not, it will be about details, about opponents, if the other teams are very strong and they don’t lose points.”

Marquez is not concerned about the unbeaten away streak

While speaking on the topic of unbeaten streaks, Marquez downplayed the significance of statistics. While describing the fine margins in those statistics he stated, “If one team wins tomorrow, the other will lose this condition. For us, it’s not about the unbeaten tag. It’s about playing well and getting results.”

He emphasized that both FC Goa and Odisha are strong teams in good form, making the clash a tightly contested affair. While talking about the break of momentum in between games this season, he shared his belief in his team to perform when it matters.

With a few players like Laxmikant Kattimani, Muhammad Nemil and Alan Saji missing from the Odisha game, the Spaniard stated all other players will be fit and raring to go. As FC Goa currently are in a good run of form and eager to extend their unbeaten streak, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter against the Juggernauts.

With FC Goa holding a winning record against Odisha FC in the recent past, Marquez will be looking for all three points on Saturday at the Kalinga Stadium.

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