Juan Ferrando calls upon need to keep calm with playoffs in sight

With the win against Odisha FC, the Gaurs climbed to fourth place on the Indian Super League (ISL) table.

And it finally came. After a run of 6 matches with split goals and points, FC Goa finally registered only their sixth win so far in the campaign, despite being currently on an 11-match unbeaten run. Early first-half goals from Spaniards Alberto Noguera and Jorge Ortiz set the ball rolling for Juan Ferrando and co before Ivan Gonzalez added a third for them.

The win would be a huge boost for the Gaurs who were winless in the six games before, all stalemates. “I am satisfied because we got three points. It is good for the atmosphere in the dressing room to get three points after a run of six draws. It was very important to win one game in this situation," the tactician said after the game.

Life in the Bio-Bubble

With the season nearing its end, the bio-bubble is having a more pronounced effect on the players. “More or less, it is near the end of the season. A lot of players are going through a lot of emotions. The anxiousness and the stress. I think today’s game allows the players to relax for two days and then to prepare for Bengaluru FC," Juan Ferrando said.

Controlling emotions

With crucial games on the radar, the Gaurs' head coach opined that they need to overcome all mental obstacles and adopt a calm front. “We need to control our emotions. This is the truth. Some players have a lot of stress.  It is very difficult. It is necessary to keep calm. Control the game. Control the space. With respect to our playing style, we need to have a clear mentality and be positive throughout the game.”

Player performances

Ivan Gonzalez had a solid game for the Gaurs, with an assist and a goal to go along with his defensive performance. “A very good game. I am very happy for Ivan. He is working hard all the time. For me though, the result is not about individual performances. FC Goa played very well today. Of course, I am very happy with Ivan and also the rest of the team who was perfect," Juan Ferrando said,

Ivan’s fellow Spaniard Alberto Noguera was also a key factor in the victory for FC Goa. “Alberto started as the No.10, Princeton and Glan were the No.8s. At the last minute, we decided to change our plans because we had problems with the press. Alberto can play as a  No.8, No.10 or as a winger. For us, he is an important player, because we can use him in different positions. He understands our style a lot which is good for us.” the victorious gaffer concluded.

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