ISL 2022-23: We always play with a good attitude: Head coach Josep Gombau

Odisha FC head coach Josep Gombau has showered praise on his players, stating that they always play with a good attitude. The Kalinga Warriors have got off to a decent start in the ninth edition of the Hero ISL as they have won four of the six matches while they have lost two games.

They have a total of 12 points and they are currently in fifth place in the standings. Odisha FC had won their last match against East Bengal FC and they would want to carry the good form against Chennaiyin FC on Thursday at their home ground of Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneshwar.

Putting light on the mood of the dressing room after a win against East Bengal, Josep Gombau said in the pre-match press conference, “We are excited to play in front of the fans on Thursday. It is an important game, as everybody can see. It is a very tough week with a lot of teams involved. This is a league where any team can beat the other teams, and we will try to play the game well. It will be a top game. I will ask my players to concentrate, to avoid simple mistakes, and most importantly, to put forward a good performance and try to win because if we win that will be a big step.”

Gombau revealed that the game’s strategy changes according to the opposition they are playing and the players try to adapt to the plans.

He said, “Every single game we have our own way to play the game, depending on the opposition team we adjust ourselves on how to adapt, the way that we press and as a single game we will prepare in the same process. Chennaiyin FC have a very good squad with a very good coach. It will be difficult. We played a friendly game before the start of the season, which was a tough fixture, and on Thursday, we will try to defeat them. We have our own plans to try and minimise what they want to do and take advantage of it.”

Meanwhile, Odisha FC has won both of their home matches in the ongoing season and Gombau feels it is always an advantage to play at home and make the most of their own conditions.

Gombau concluded, “There is always an advantage when you play home and away games. We feel comfortable here, and we are happy to play in front of the fans. The fans always bring that extra energy when the team is tired and help you complete the job. This fact about playing in front of the home fans is very good, and I hope we can win on Thursday.”