FC Goa will wind up their historic AFC Champions League campaign with the penultimate match against Emirati outfit Al Wahda. Although the gaurs have been commendable in their maiden ACL campaign, a lot of people may even say that they could have had a win or two considering the chances they had in some matches. But nevertheless, the Indian Super League outfit has shown great courage and grit against superior teams. Therefore fans will be expecting them to put up another valiant performance in their last outing.
Ahead of their game against Al Wahda, Juan Ferrando spoke at length regarding various aspects at the pre-match press conference.
Ferrando admitted that it will be a difficult game for his men as Al Wahda will be desperate for a win as they have a chance of winning the group.
“We know that it’s a difficult game because Al Wahda have a good chance to finish in top position. We prepare one plan but it’s difficult because of problems with players (having) injuries, they are very tired,” the Spaniard began.
“But of course, our target is to be competitive in the next game and try to get three points.”
The former Volos manager is very careful and once again highlighted how his team needs to be tactically sound throughout the game. He added, “The most important thing is to make the best decisions. Sometimes, we are thinking about who is better on the pitch, who helps the team more in a moment. But, the problem is for example a player is not 100% (fit) on the pitch, he’s exhausted. In this case, we need to prepare.”
The last encounter between the Emirati outfit and FC Goa was a firecracker of a match as it had chances on both sides but it sadly ended in a goalless draw. Explaining the plans for this match, Ferrando admitted that it will be difficult as they are in great form right now and have a chance to make it to the next round. However he does not want his players to sit back and relax as this is their last match of the ACL campaign.
“In football, we need to think (about) three points. It’s going to be difficult, it’s a great opportunity for Al Wahda to participate in the next round.”
“For us, we are thinking about the third position. We can’t think this is the last game and relax. This is the Champions League, we need to be strong and participate, find the best XI tomorrow and prepare a tactical plan,” he signed off.
