Ahead of Wednesday’s AFC Champions League Two qualifier against Oman’s Al Seeb, FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez has urged his players and supporters to embrace the challenge, despite acknowledging the strength of their opponents.
“I think most of the teams in India would like to be in this position and to play this match,” Marquez told reporters on the eve of the game. “As usual, it will be a difficult match for us, but it will not be easy for them as well.”
Al Seeb, bolstered by several Oman national team players, represents a formidable test for the Gaurs. Oman, ranked 79th in the FIFA standings, is still in contention for a place at the next FIFA World Cup, underscoring the quality Marquez’s side will face.
“When you play these kind of competitions, you know that the opponent will be strong,” the Spaniard said. “Football in Oman is constantly growing, and they are still in the fight to qualify for the World Cup. A lot of players from the national team play in Al Seeb. But I feel it will be an equal game, and we will have chances. Obviously, it won’t be easy for us, but it won’t be easy for them either.”
Marquez emphasized the importance of home support, calling on fans to create an atmosphere that can spur his team on at Fatorda Stadium. Drawing on recent memories, he said, “In our last match here, we lost to Bengaluru FC on aggregate. But the connection I saw between the crowd and the players was special. From there, we went on to win the Super Cup, and tomorrow, I hope we perform well again.”
To strengthen their campaign, FC Goa has made key additions to the squad with the signings of Spanish forward Javier Siverio — who previously played under Marquez at Hyderabad FC and Las Palmas — midfielder David Timor, and defender Pol Moreno. While their experience is expected to be vital, Marquez insisted that the team’s success will depend on collective effort.
“This is an all-or-nothing match for us,” he admitted, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding Indian football and the future of the Indian Super League. “We need everyone — not just the new signings — to contribute.”
Kick-off at Fatorda promises an intense battle, with the stakes high for both sides. For FC Goa, victory would mean progression in Asia’s continental competition; for Marquez, it would also stand as proof that Indian clubs can compete with some of the region’s best.
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