FC Goa head coach Carlos Pena was delighted after his team defeated the previous season’s League Shield winners Jamshedpur FC by 3-0 at their home ground of Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa on Thursday. The Gaurs were playing at their fortress Fatorda after a long hiatus of 972 days and celebrated their homecoming in style.
The team’s forward Iker Guarrotxena gave a rollicking start to his team as he found the back of the net in only the second minute of the game. Subsequently, Noah Sadaoui scored in the 12th minute of the game to give a 2-0 lead to his team.
Brison Deuben Fernandes then scored in the 90th minute to put the game to bed for the home team.
Carlos Pena revealed why he brought in Glan Martins in place of Fares Arnaout as he said in the press conference, “I’m very happy with the team’s performance. Every game has different characteristics, and the team has to adapt to the situation, and I’m glad we gave a good performance. I brought Glan because of his qualities with the ball at his feet and his strength. He performed great after coming in and helped the team to victory.”
Asked if the team was under pressure as they were playing a home game after a long gap of more than two years, Pena said, “Of course, there was pressure. I could see my players were motivated in the tunnel leading up to kick-off. They were looking forward to playing in front of the home fans. We started the game really well. I’m glad how things turned out, and I thank the fans for coming out to support the team. It helped massively, and we all felt that connection with the fans.”
FC Goa dominated the possession with 64% and completed a total of 496 successful passes as they were at their best.
Pena said on his team’s performance, “I believe possession helped us. For me, if possession is helping the team, then I only want it, not for its own sake. We were able to draw the opposition out of the compact zones. We created space behind the defense, and we took great advantage with the help of our wingers and converted the chances, which paved the way to our victory.”
FC Goa has won three out of the four matches they have played. The Gaurs will next face Kerala Blasters FC on 13 November at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi.
