Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: FC Goa may not have taken maximum points from their season opener, but head coach Manolo Marquez believes the draw was an important first step in a tightly contested campaign. The Gaurs came from behind to secure a 1 1 result against Inter Kashi last week, ensuring they avoided a slow start in the shortened 2025 to 26 edition of the Indian Super League.
With only 13 matches to be played on a home and away basis, every point carries added significance. Manolo stressed the importance of getting off the mark early, noting that staying close to the leaders will be crucial in a compressed schedule where slipups can prove costly.
FC Goa now travel to Kolkata to face Mohammedan Sporting Club at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan on Friday in the opening fixture of Match Week 2. Both teams are chasing their first win of the campaign.
Mohammedan Sporting began their season with a narrow 1 0 defeat against Jamshedpur FC. Despite the loss, the Kolkata side displayed defensive discipline and organisation under head coach Mehrajuddin Wadoo, fielding an all Indian lineup. However, they struggled to create clear chances in the attacking third. Playing at home, they will aim to turn their structured approach into points in front of their supporters.
Manolo expects a demanding contest, highlighting Mohammedan’s intensity and freedom from pressure as potential challenges. While he believes his squad possesses greater quality on paper, he emphasised that superiority must be demonstrated through performance on the pitch.
With both sides eager to build early momentum, Friday’s encounter promises to be a competitive battle as they look to gain a foothold in the evolving league standings.
