Goa: FC Goa’s head coach, Manolo Marquez, expressed satisfaction with the team’s goalkeeping prowess and defensive strategy following their recent victory against Kerala Blasters. Marquez commended goalkeeper Arshdeep for his outstanding performance but acknowledged the strength and depth in the goalkeeping department with Dheeraj and Hritik.
“I feel that I’m not fair with Dheeraj because Dheeraj is another great goalkeeper. We have a very good goalkeeper for the future with Hritik. Maybe one of the best things that we have in the team,” remarked Marquez during a press conference.
The head coach emphasized the exceptional qualities of Arshdeep, stating, “Arshdeep is a goalkeeper who is very good in our style of play. He’s always ready to play outside the box and now is with more confidence because when you are playing games and the team doesn’t concede goals, you are with more confidence.”
While acknowledging the potential disappointment for Dheeraj, Marquez highlighted the challenge of making decisions as a coach. “It’s not about being hard. I can understand that the goalkeeper, because it’s a special position, can be disappointed because one goalkeeper that has played in the national team. But seriously, we have very good goalkeepers, and I can understand if I am Dheeraj, maybe I would be disappointed.”
Addressing the team’s defensive strategy, Marquez revealed, “The plan is always don’t concede goals, and if we can score, we score. It’s true that when you face Kerala Blasters, it’s always a tough match. They are a very difficult team because the character of the coach is a good image for their players. I think the team fights till the last minute always, and it’s a very difficult team to beat.”
Marquez acknowledged the competitiveness of the current season, foreseeing a challenging race to the playoffs. Reflecting on the unpredictability of football, he admitted, “I am very bad at predictions.”
FC Goa’s recent win against Kerala Blasters showcased their defensive resilience and strategic approach, leaving fans optimistic about the team’s performance in the ongoing season. FC Goa regained the top spot in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 points table by subjecting Kerala Blasters FC to a 1-0 defeat at the Fatorda Stadium
