PANJIM: “Goa used to be a hub of talent for the Nation but off late it has changed,” Bibiano Fernandes couldn’t hide his emotions while watching a football match in the State as he recollected the days wherein Goa had finest talent in every corner.
“Back then we had a lot of talented youngsters in Goa playing in the Goa league, but now the quality isn’t the same as before and it’s sad to see this,” expressed Bibiano who had the opportunity to watch the Goa league after the AIFF Junior team training was halted due to COVID.
Bibiano Fernandes is presently the National team coach for the junior side and his performance as a gaffer has earned him accolades throughout the nation. Despite being at the top, the humble coach decided to give back to the community which has been the reason for his success.
“Since Goa and has given me a lot in football and has helped me to become the finest player in Goa and India is still nurturing me as a Coach. I am looking forward to giving back something to the State in whatever I have gained through football and help the young players achieve their dreams through the B23 Football Academy,” explained Bibiano Fernades.
“We can achieve this dream together by working in the right way. I Always believe in teamwork, and nothing is possible without my team working behind me to achieve this dream. I have Hillary Soares and renowned International Fashion Designer Melvyn Noronha who have assisted in this project of B23 Football Academy in the State,” expressed Bibiano.
Having the opportunity to watch the Goa league matches with Bibiano, it was rather easy to understand his approach towards the sport and his reasoning was justified with the analysis he provided at the end of the game.
“We have plenty of academies which have been helping the youth. That’s a good thing that is happening. But we need more of us coming forward in helping our state. I have started this B23 Football Academy for the children with a main aim developing our Goan players and getting back the glory days once again,” expressed Bibiano.
Bibiano will be conducting a free football camp for the children at Poriat ground in the coming week.
“We have a set of qualified coaches, who will be working like a family to bring the level of aspiring Goa footballers,” he added.
Bibiano has travelled across the world with the Indian National junior team and the Saligao veteran feels Goa has the potential to have the best talent.
“I was fortunate enough to see the level in Asia and Europe with the national team, and we Goan have the potential to achieve that level if we are trained and guided is the right path,” expressed Bibiano Fernandes.
Reaching AFC Asian Cup quarterfinals in Malaysia 2018 and narrowly losing against Korea by a goal and then qualifying again in the next year, as group winners in Afghanistan has boosted Bibiano’s confidence. His aim is clear. “We are not too far. Main aim is to qualify for the world cup on merit.”
