Manolo Marquez not too disappointed with FC Goa’s performance despite first-leg semifinal loss against Bengaluru FC

FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez, who is known to not mince any words, said he wasn’t too disappointed with his team’s performance despite a first-leg 0-2 semifinal loss against Bengaluru FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru on Wednesday.

Sandesh Jhingan scored an own goal to put the Blues in front in the 42nd minute. Subsequently, Edgar Mendez scored the home team’s second goal in the 51st minute. 

The Gaurs dominated the possession with 57.9% but could only manage two shots on target. However, Manolo Marquez reckons the game was more even than what the final score suggested.

“For me, the game was more even than the final score,” Marquez said during the post-match press conference.

“Maybe, we didn’t create many clear chances but we were in control of the game especially in the second half which is normal because Bengaluru FC were winning 2-0. I’m not very disappointed with our performance,” he added.

The Spaniard reckons his team wasn’t up to the mark as they haven’t played together for almost a month.

“We were without a competitive game for almost one month. But Bengaluru FC have a very good team. But I am very proud that we finished ten points above Bengaluru FC because they are a top team. Mohun Bagan Super Giant, FC Goa and Bengaluru FC are the three best squads in ISL,” he said.

The gaffer urged the FC Goa’s fans to turn up in huge numbers to help them turn the 0-2 deficit in the second leg.

“The reality is that we need to try to turn this score (around). It will be difficult. But there are 90 more minutes,” he said.

“We know that there will be a lot of fans at the Fatorda. We want the supporters to come to the stadium and do as good as or better if it’s possible than the Bengaluru FC fans. Finally, it’s a game. In the regular season, we beat them 3-0. Obviously, there is always hope,” he concluded.

The second leg of the semifinal will be played on Sunday at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa.