Juan Ferrando: It is crucial that we believe in ourselves

Juan Ferrando: It is crucial that we believe in ourselves

It has been only two days since FC Goa’s last outing against NorthEast United where they lost through a goal deep in extra time. This leaves them last on the table and still in search of that much-needed first win this season. However, the Gaurs have another shot at redemption come Tuesday when they take on 10th placed SC East Bengal in an away game at the Tilak Maidan, Goa. 

FC Goa plan on leaving no stone unturned before they take on SC East Bengal. Speaking ahead of the contest, FC Goa head coach Juan Ferrando spoke to fcgoa.in about the team’s mindset and the positives from the last game. 

Although the Gaurs lost the game against the Highlanders, they showed a lot of mettle going forward throughout the game. Jorge Ortiz looked menacing at the top, especially with Alberto Noguera able to release them with sublime passing. 

When asked if this was something the team will continue, Ferrando said, “This is the way we play and the way we see the game, even though yesterday we did not have much success. I believe we should be working in that same direction. We need to improve everything but our priority is to believe in ourselves, to believe in our skills and that we can do it.”  

On heading into the game against SC East Bengal

After failing to get off the mark in their opening three games, the Gaurs will be hungry to get back to winning ways when they face the Red and Gold on Tuesday night. 

Speaking about the upcoming game, the Spaniard opined, “Again, I think it is crucial to control our emotions. 

“We should get rid of nerves and stress. The situation is difficult but we need to do our best and work hard to get ready for that match.”

Room to improve

Although FC Goa controlled the game well against NorthEast United, they lacked decisiveness on the pitch. The side lacked precision in the final attacking third and were caught off guard at the back on a few occasions. 

Eight goals conceded in their first three games has been a reflection of the lack of stability at the back. 

“The rival took advantage of two moments of distraction from us to score the two goals. This gave them the opportunity,” the head coach further iterated speaking of the last game. We need to keep focused over the whole 90 minutes.”

The game against East Bengal gives FC Goa another chance of getting their season back on track with the elusive first win up for grabs. The Gaurs will look to be fourth time lucky and put the losses behind them when they hit the turf at the Tilak Maidan Stadium against SC East Bengal in a match that will have a huge bearing on the seasons of both the clubs.