FC Goa, who are out of semis contention, will be looking to ruin Delhi Dynamos' chances of making it to the play-offs of the ISL 2016 when the two teams clash on Sunday. The team, managed by Brazilian legend Zico, doesn't have anything to lose now and will be able to play freely. Delhi manager Gianluca Zambrotta even admitted that this could be the most difficult match for his side this season.
Zico held his pre-match press conference ahead of FC Goa's Sunday's match against Delhi Dynamos. Here are the important points to note.
The Brazilian clearly stated that his team will be playing continuing with the same intensity despite the fact that the Gaurs are not able to qualify for the semis. The 63-year old also said that his team will play for the Jersey and the fans.
“We are professionals. We are aware of the jersey we are wearing and the fans around us. We will play with the same intensity and give everything we have got", Zico said
FC Goa were the runner-ups last time, but this term they are the first time to disqualify. The former CSKA Moscow manager spoke about what went wrong for his team this time. Zico pointed out that he was not able to make proper signings because of the controversies that revolved around the team. He also gave refereeing mistakes as another reason for the team's failure.
“Many things happened. One reason was that when all the teams were being prepared with new signings, we faced a fine and couldn't put a team together properly. We did not have much time either. We also lost some players who were important for us last season.
“There were many matches in which the referee made mistakes, like the match against Kerala, so we lost valuable points. I know no one is perfect but everything I did was for the best", the former Fenerbahce manager explained.
Zico also expressed uncertainty over his future at the club. He said that he doesn't know if he will be there with FC Goa next season. However, the Brazilian revealed that he loves Goa and is open to come back to the club.
”We have to see if they want us. People from Goa love me, I love Goa. I would love to come back. But we will have to wait and see. There will be changes. As of now nothing is sure”, Zico told the press.
The former Udinese also spoke about the fans and football India. He praised the fans and also said emphasised on giving more chances to the Indian players. He wants the players to interact with foreign teams to increase the standard and quality.
“One thing I noticed is the fans and they have been very passionate. I saw some good football being played. However, there should be interactions between all teams. The Indian players should also be given more chances to play. Also, matches should be played against international teams to improve the standard.
“Teams from Italy, Germany and Spain should come and interact with the players and teach them", Zico said when talking about his experiences in India.
