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Amongst the plethora of foreign recruits who are making Indian Football a confluence of different cultures, one Indian Super League club has successfully been able to maintain retain its original local flavour.
FC Goa have been one of the top clubs in the League, keeping the torch of Goan football alive.
“The feeling that I get every time I walk out onto the pitch at the Fatorda is chilling,” said midfielder Lenny Rodrigues. “It gives me goosebumps, and at the same time we soak in the energy from the fans.”
“The passion for football in the tiny state burns so bright that this exuberance from the stands percolates onto the pitch, and into the minds as well as the hearts of the players.”
“The love and support received from all the fans has been a mode of motivation since day one. With every victory it just got bigger and better,” said local hero Brandon Fernandes, a former AIFF youth development cadet.
However, it’s not just the support of the fans that has kept Goan football alive. In fact, the Gaurs have consistently been one of the top sides in the ISL; two second-placed finishes, and four top-four spots in the last five ISL seasons being testament to that fact.
The local boys have also benefited a lot from the Spanish flavour which Lobera, along with the foreigners have brought into the club.
Brandon, who turned into one of the most feared Indian wingers in the league believes Lobera has been able to fine-tune his skills to suit the needs of the team.
“Coach’s guidance has helped me sharpen my skills, and style of play which in return has helped me grow as a player,” he said.
The style of football played by Lobera has also helped Lenny improve his game.
“His system has really helped me. It demands a lot of skill as well as stamina to play the role I am asked to,” said Rodrigues. “It is a huge challenge. But I can safely say this season has been one of the best for me.”
Ultimately, this system has only helped Goan football, as it allows the local players to be a part of a more attacking setup.
“We have been playing a brand of football which people have identified us with, both in awe and envy,” Lenny smiles. “A big part of that has been the Goans in the squad. Seriton, Mandar, Brandon, and myself have been able to win the trust of Sergio Lobera. And the results are there for all to see.”
At the end of the day, as Brandon puts it, “Indian football becomes the real winner”.
“The progress of Goan clubs and players have always created a big impact on Indian Football. And with the present looks of it, a bright future for Indian Football seems evident,” Brandon expressed.
