Café speaks with a few fans as to what the victory means to them
Last season of the Indian Super League saw
FC Goa almost go all the way in their quest for glory, only to falter at the
penultimate stage, leaving fans utterly dejected and heartbroken. However,
Tuesday evening gave all football fans in the state plenty to celebrate about,
as FC Goa triumphed over Al Shabab, with a 2-1 score line settling their second
friendly ahead of the upcoming ISL’s second season.
With Dubai being a huge hub for Goan
expatriates, The Al Shabab Stadium in Dubai saw a fair number of Goans
celebrate live at the venue. Fans also got a look at the squad and what they
can expect from next season, with Reinaldo and Jofre both finding their
names on the scorecard yet again. The
victory also signifies a lot in terms of the squad’s strength, as Al Shabab are
the former UAE League champions and current GCC Champions.
This is what FC Goa’s fans took away from
last night’s result:
This win against Al Shabab, Dubai was big
for FC Goa as it proves that the team can play anywhere and in any climate.
There is new talent and I am expecting a stronger team to win the title this
year. Another interesting factor is that most of the team is made up of Goan
and Brazilian players, who are great footballers, so it will be double the fun
to see them on the field.
Clifton D’Cruz, Pirna
Goa defeated Al Shabab – yes; but what is
important is that apart from putting a sound, aggressive front, Goa kept a good
shape in the defence, marshalled by marquee player Lucio despite having to deal
with a couple of long efforts from their opponents. This speaks volumes of the
maturity of the team.
Pramay Sawant, Ponda

