Margao:
Happy with his team’s three back-to-back victories to jump to second position, FC Goa coach Zico says his boys are determined to play with the same disposition and desire in the upcoming matches of the Indian Super League, but would be taking one game at a time.
Asked how he rates his team’s chances against table toppers Chennaiyin FC, followed by another strong unit, Atletico de Kolkata in the next two games, Zico said the focus for the time being is only on Chennai.
“We are taking one step at a time. Now we have to focus only on Chennai next. They had a very good result, which puts them in a very good spot. We are going to play with the same disposition and same desire, and we will try to get more points,” said Zico.
FC Goa ended their home campaign last night with their third straight win and moved to second spot in the table with 18 points from 12 matches to brighten their chances of making it to the semifinals.
“I am very happy. We received an amazing reaction on the ground and yet we had our feet on the ground. I am happy with my players’ performance. They gave their best in the practice matches and this is the fruit of that. I am very happy with the reactions of the fans, who love football, and Goa is very well represented here. I would like to congratulate the fans for the victory,” said the coach.
Zico said he was not keen on changing the winning combination at the moment.
“In Brazil we always say that the team that is winning, doesn’t change. So we have kept the same team and haven’t moved the players. Many players are doing well and they have no injuries, so there is no need for a change.”
On how difficult it is to leave Robert Pires out of the matches on a consistent basis, Zico replied: “I don’t think I need to talk about that. I made the change in the midfield and they are playing well. But I want Pires to continue with the practice and so when he gets the opportunity to play, he is fit to play.”
Meanwhile, Mandar Rao Dessai was asked how it was to replace the likes of Clifford Miranda, the midfielder said, “I give my best in the every practice session and my teammates help me. Even Clifford Miranda helps me in everything. I feel great to play in his place.”
