ISL 2022-23: Wanted to put things right after the last game – FC Goa head coach Carlos Pena

FC Goa head coach Carlos Pena said he wanted to put things right after losing the previous match against Kerala Blasters FC by 3-1. The Gaurs bounced back in style as they defeated ATK Mohun Bagan by 3-0 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa on Sunday.

Aibanbha Dohling, Fares Arnaout, and Noah Sadaoui scored in the second half to help their team secure three points. With this win, FC Goa climbed to the third position in the points table and this was Goa’s first-ever win over the Mariners in the Hero ISL.

Carlos Pena was delighted with his team’s performance as the side took a total of eight shots on target.

Speaking about the next match against Bengaluru FC, Carlos Pena said in the post-match press conference, “We are happy to play at home and we know that it’s a very important game for us. After winning today, we have to be humble. It was a great performance. We can enjoy a little bit today, but from Monday, we have to start thinking about Bengaluru FC and how to get three points. For today, it’s time to enjoy, celebrate and go home happy.”

The Spaniard also gave credit to the team’s fans for their unwavering support in the tournament.

He said, “Fans are very important. At home we feel confident, and we know that here we are stronger with the support of the fans. Today was not an easy day for us because today we came from a tough loss from Kerala. We did not show our best version, and did not show what we wanted to show. Today, the team showed great character, and the guys put up a very consistent performance, I’m very happy. Today, it’s time to celebrate and from Monday, we start thinking about the next game.”

Pena revealed that the goal of the team is to take one step at a time and focus on the next match against the Blues to continue their winning impetus.

He concluded, “The next step is the next game. That’s the only goal we have. Today was a great step but we have to be humble. I think the game began with us in the seventh position, and now we are in the third position so it’s important to keep calm because last week, we were not so bad as we showed in Kerala. Today we are not going to become the champions, so it’s time to build little by little, with a strong structure, a strong foundation. I’m very happy for the guys, they deserve it and from tomorrow, we keep on working.”

FC Goa will next take on Bengaluru FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa on Saturday.