'It is not a problem, but a challenge' - FC Goa's coach Carlos Pena opines ahead of ISL opener

Carlos Pena (Image Source: Twitter)

FC Goa will face East Bengal FC (EBFC) in their Indian Super League (ISL) season opener and the latter will look to make a strong comeback after losing their first match. The Gaurs, on the other hand, will look to prevent a counterattack from Stephen Constantine’s men. Ahead of the clash on October 12, Tuesday, FC Goa’s head coach Carlos Pena said that his team has all it takes to face the wrath of EBFC. 

In the press conference, Pena said that he expects the Torch Bearers to go hard on his men. Further, the boss said that the team was excited ahead of the ISL opener and emphasized the hard work that they put in prior to the start of the campaign.

“We’re really excited. We’re starting the season and the first game is always special, and we have done a lot of work in the pre-season just like the other teams. We’re looking forward to playing against East Bengal FC,” Pena said ahead of the clash in the press conference. 

On being asked if anyone is injured in the squad, the coach said that all of them were available for the first match. “No (injury concerns), everyone is available for the first game. Luckily, I can count on all my players, and everybody is ready,” said the boss further. 

FC Goa is going to be a great team: Pena

Pena further said that his team will continue with the attacking style of play and also highlighted the importance of defenders. “Football is about balance and you need to be good in attacking as well as defending,” the coach added. “I can say that FC Goa is going to be a great team going into each match, and we’ll try to play attacking style and score goals but for that we need to have a good defence too, which is vital in football,” said the Gaurs boss.

When asked about the young team, Pena said that he was not worried the same and backed them to go big in the upcoming tournament. The Goa head coach also said his team was set to take on the teams in the top-flight contest. 

“It is true that we have a very young squad - one of the youngest in the league, but this is not a problem, it is a challenge. From what I’ve seen of the boys during the pre-season, I can say that this FC Goa (team) has a strong personality and are competitive. We are ready to start the season,” Pena replied.