ISL 2024-25: Petr Kratky admits FC Goa were better after loss at home

Mumbai City FC head coach Petr Kratky admitted FC Goa was better than them after a 1-3 loss at the Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai in the ongoing Indian Super League on Wednesday.

Iker Guarrotxena scored a first-half brace for the Gaurs whereas Borja Herrera scored the third goal of the night for the visitors in the 64th minute. Lallianzuala Chhangte scored a consolation goal from a spot kick in stoppage time.

The Islanders dominated the possession with 61.3% and took six shots on target but they could not convert their chances.

“I don’t think so. I think we’re getting better as a team. I think overall you have to respect the opposition. I think the opposition is very good. I think we’re doing well. We’re getting better. Yes, at home we’re not getting results at the moment, but I think we are on a good pathway and getting stronger, which is positive for me. So, Goa was just better today and deserved to win,” Kratky said in the post-match press conference.

The gaffer admitted they were put under pressure when they conceded the opening goal in the 24th minute.

“I think the first goal put us a little bit on our knees. We gave a little bit more space to Iker to shoot after a little bit more touches than we would have liked to. But again, they are quality players; they are a quality team,” Kratky stated.

“You give them a little bit more space, and they will finish it with the goal. So that’s the quality of what FC Goa have, and again, respect for them. They have a very good game; they work hard and deserve to win,” he added.

Kratky showered praise on Iker Guarrotxena, who was brilliant for the Gaurs as he scored two goals.

“Iker (Guarrotxena) now starts playing for FC Goa regularly. He is scoring goals, he is creating, and he is dropping between the lines. He is a very good player. So you have to respect that. Sometimes you can do your best, but when you have individual brilliance like the first goal, he takes it.”

“So again, we know about FC Goa. We know it is not rocket science what they do, but they are doing very well. They have worked very hard, and again, as I said, they deserve to win today,” he further added.

Mumbai City FC will next take on Hyderabad FC at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium, Hyderabad on Wednesday.