ISL 2022-23: Our mentality was the same all the time – ATK Mohun Bagan’s Juan Ferrando

ATK Mohun Bagan head coach Juan Ferrando was delighted after they defeated reigning champions Hyderabad FC on penalties (4-3) in the second leg semifinal at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata on Monday to qualify for the finals of the Hero Indian Super League.

The match ended in a goalless draw and even after the extra time, both teams failed to find the back of the net. The home team took three shots on target whereas the visitors could take a solitary attempt on goal.

Ferrando revealed that the plan was to attack but the team didn’t have the rub of the green on their side as they couldn’t convert their chances.

“Our plan was the same all the time, in the whole match the team tried to attack and create chances. We were unlucky to not convert but I’m happy that the team tried their best. After the 75th-minute mark, it was obvious for the players to get tired, it was difficult to make substitutions because you don’t know whether the match is going to end in 90 minutes or go to the extra time for 120 minutes. Our mentality was the same all the time, to win and attack,” Ferrando said in the post-match press conference.

The Spaniard revealed he told his players to keep their nerves at bay and all the players were able to stand up in the crunch situation of the game.

“I was talking to my players to give them the details and explain tactical points. All the messages and feedback were positive, we tried to trust in our way, in ourselves. It’s very important for the players to control their emotions because they were very tired, it’s not easy, it was the same for us and for Hyderabad FC and one mistake can be a great opportunity for the opponents. Penalties are like a coin, we don’t like to conclude the whole season based on that but it’s part of football,” Ferrando said.

Ferrando was delighted with the team’s win and gave his gratitude to the team’s fans. An attendance of 52507 was recorded on Monday and thus the Mariners had a lot of support at their own den.

“We’re very happy because I know when we play at home the supporters are very close to the players and the support is amazing. In some moments of the match when the players are tired and not feeling fresh, the supporters tried to help the players and we’re very happy that we have reached the final while playing at home. The mood and the vibes are great and now we’re looking forward to Saturday. I hope the fans are traveling to Goa for the final and the atmosphere for ATK Mohun Bagan is going to be fantastic,” Ferrando stated.

ATK Mohun Bagan will take on Bengaluru FC in the final on Saturday.