ISL 2023-24: We deserved to win this game, says FC Goa’s Manolo Marquez after draw against Mumbai City FC

FC Goa’s Manolo Marquez feels they deserved to win the game after a 1-1 draw against Mumbai City FC in the 17th match week of the ongoing Indian Super League at the Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai on Wednesday.

After a goalless first half, Vikram Partap Singh scored for the Islanders right after the break. However, the Gaurs equalized after Mohammad Yasir scored a stunning goal in the 61st minute of the game.

Meanwhile, the visitors took five shots on target and nine shots off target. But Marquez’s team only had 42% possession. The Gaurs have gone winless in their last five matches, having lost three and drawn two.

The Spaniard was disappointed with the result but felt they played well in the second half of the game.

“We are not completely satisfied in terms of points but satisfied with how the team played, especially in the second half,” Marquez said in the post-match press conference.

Meanwhile, FC Goa created a lot of chances throughout the game but failed to capitalize on them and thus had to settle for a point against the Islanders.

“When Mumbai City FC scored the goal, their players were free. After facing three consecutive defeats, we needed to play like FC Goa, like we played in the first half of the season. I feel we deserved to win (this game) because we hit the post thrice.”

“Even in the first half, Mumbai City FC had more ball possession, yet they didn’t create a lot of chances despite having lots of players who could have scored goals,” he added.

On the other hand, Borja Herrera had to leave the field in the previous match against Kerala Blasters due to an injury. The Spaniard was introduced in the 83rd minute by Marquez and he nearly found the back of the net for a late winner but was denied by Mumbai City FC goalkeeper, Phurba Lachenpa.

“In the last match (against Kerala Blasters FC), Borja Herrera suffered an injury and left the pitch. He was not ready to play for 90 minutes (today). He entered in the last few minutes. The doctors and the physios even said he couldn’t play. But we know his shooting quality outside of the box is very good. And he was very close to scoring the (winning) goal,” he shared.

FC Goa will next face East Bengal FC at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa on Wednesday.