Mumbai City FC might have finished at the top of the league table this time around in the Indian Super League. However, Mumbai coach Alexandre Guimaraes didn’t shy away from putting Kolkata as the favourite going into the semis against Atletico.
“This the first time we are in the semis. Atletico have been here every time. They know about the situation more than we do. They have more experience in these stages. We are just excited to be here,” quipped the Costa Rican. “So I guess, you understand what I feel about the situation.”
Atletico: Formidable opponents
Guimaraes has himself garnered a lot of praise by the way he has put all the pieces together, creating a team that has given the city of Mumbai finally some joy in the Indian Super League. And the 57-year-old feels that the growing of an identity in their way of playing the game is a big reason they are reaping the rewards.
“We have been very stable and that gives us confidence. Not only where we ended up on the table.
“We have grown and identity together. We have grown a style of play. We stick together and this is a battle to preserve that identity. And this is very important for us.”
Whilst taking confidence from their play in the group stages, Guimaraes garlanded praise on his opponents in the semis.
“Atletico play an attacking brand of football, just like us. But I feel the game might not be decided here.”
180-minute semi-final
With away goals not a factor in the two-legged semis, many feel that the semis can become a dragged out affair. Some have even opined that the teams might even sit back in the first leg and let the game play out its course before giving a real go in the second game.
However, the Mumbai City coach begged to differ as he feels both teams are quite aggressive in nature. In fact, it will be the characteristic of the game on Saturday that will decide the way Mumbai plays.
“We have the best defensive record in the league. We know that. But, our game is not only about defending.
“We have many talented players going forward and everyone is hungry right now to prove themselves.
“Best defence. But our game not only about the defence. We have talented players going forward. Everyone is hungry.
“We have played everyone in our 27-man squad except for three and that goes to show our strength and depth.”
Diego Forlan and the local players
Diego Forlan has had an on and off time in the Indian Super League so far. Whilst, he has thrilled the audience with his touches and finishing skills, those moments for many haven’t come too often. However, Guimaraes showered praise on his marquee star stating that he has been an “example” to the youngsters in his squad.
“He is not one of those marquee players who plays one game and goes missing for the next few.
“He is a great professional, who is setting examples for the others. He has great skills and more than that he is really looking forward to play in each and every game.
“This can only be good Indian football.”
Guimaraes, in his first season in India admitted that he was taken by surprise by the quality of the Indian players. However, felt that there is still much work to be done and room for growth.
And for Mumbai to really grow, Guimaraes has to hope that they grow out of their lofty position in the league phase and not get the occasion of a first ever semi-final appearance catch them off guard.
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