Sporting Goa Media
NEW DELHI: After an impressive win in the opening fixture of Goa Pro League, Sporting Clube de Goa has flown to the National Capital for the Durand Football Tournament which kicks off on Sunday. The Flaming Oranje will take on the I-League side DSK Shivajians from Pune in the opening fixture at Ambedkar Stadium, New Delhi, kick-off at 06:30 pm. Both sides look fresh and ready to kick start an exciting Tournament with the high-profile showdown in the Capital.
When asked about the squad Sporting Gaffer Mateus Costa said, “Most of them are looking in good shape, we had our first training session here yesterday and everything seems to be positive”
About the younger team in hand this season Costa said “Everyone is trying to improve here, it’s a constant thing. We have good competition for every position and that makes things even more interesting on the pitch.”
When asked about the expectations from the tournament Costa said “We are currently focused on our first match. We will take one match at a time and then see what we can make of it.”
When asked about the successive matches scheduled in the tournament, Costa said “Yes it’s a short tournament but we have to make the best of what we can get, and such a situation demands highest fitness level from our players. We have to plan for the matches and make sure not to lose anyone to injury.”
He further added “Such short tournaments are always a challenge; we have to be on top of our game every single match. When we get an opportunity to kill the game we should do it instantly to avoid over exerting in the end.”
Speaking about DSK Shivajians Gaffer Costa mentioned “They are a good side, also they have gone ahead and made some good signings. They are well drilled in both physical as well as technical aspect. But we ourselves have a fine side. I am sure it’s going to be a good match tomorrow.”
Signing off the Gaffer stressed, “There is no second thoughts we need to win the first match and set the target right. It is also very important that my players give in their 100% as this is definitely an important tournament for us.”
