ISL 2023-24: We created fewer chances, says FC Goa’s Manolo Marquez after draw against NorthEast United FC

FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez admitted they created fewer chances after their 1-1 draw against NorthEast United FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Friday.

Carlos Martinez was able to put the Gaurs in front in the 20th minute but the home team soon equalized as Jithin MS found the back of the net in the 26th minute.

Despite dominating the possession by 65.4%, FC Goa could only take four shots on target and thus failed to create many chances in front of the opposition’s goal.

“Today I think that we need to do self-criticism. The coach is the first who has to do it because I think that we didn’t have the players completely focused in the game,” Marquez stated in the post-match press conference.

“In the first half, we didn’t play a good game. In the second half in terms of effort, the attitude was very good but practically maybe it’s one of the games in which we created lesser chances,” he further said.

“As usual when you do not play a good game it is important not to lose. Everyone expected if we could win this game it would be very good but finally the opponent also plays (to win),” he added.

Meanwhile, the Highlanders were at their best defensively as they were able to keep the visitors at bay. The Spaniard showered praise on the opposition for their solid performance.

“NorthEast United FC is one of the teams with better organisation in terms of how they play, very good. For me Juan Pedro Benali is one of the best coaches in ISL,” Marquez said.

Meanwhile, FC Goa is the only unbeaten team in the season and they will look to continue the good show after the International break.

“One more point. Now a good break for the team,” Marquez said.

“Some players will be in the national team and the rest of the players will be in the Super Cup so we need to keep going,” he said.

“We need to progress when we come back for the training sessions (after the international break),” he added.