It was late drama in the Indian Super League semifinals second leg where Rowllin Borges’ late decider in the penalty shootout propelled Mumbai City Fc through to their first-ever finals beating FC Goa. Head coach Sergio Lobera definitely had the last laugh as he faced his former employers.
It was a very cagey affair and both sides failed to break the deadlock for 120 minutes of football. But it was the Islanders who showed great calmness at the vital stage to nick it past the Gaurs.
Speaking about the performance Lobera expressed his delight, ” “I’m very happy because the players have put in a big effort. It isn’t easy to play 90 minutes and then extra time and then go to penalties. These players deserve to play the final. I have a very good squad and I had amazing people in the dressing room and I’m very happy.”
The Spanish tactician also reserved his respect for the opponents in FC Goa and felt that they challenged his team really well and could have won the game. He said, “I think they played really well. I wish them the best in the AFC (Champions League). It was a very equal game and today they could’ve won, we could’ve won so it didn’t really matter. But for us, I’m really happy that we won.”
Despite being the ISL League Winner’s Shield, Lobera is not ready to stop as now they are in the finals with the only intention to win. He explained how the scenario is completely different in the playoffs from that of the league.
“Obviously (in the playoffs being a different ball game), I think it doesn’t matter who won because here you play for all or nothing. In the season, you play for either one point or three. But here, it is all or nothing and you need to be strong mentally. So I’m happy that my boys showed it today,” Lobera added.
Lastly, when quizzed which team will be more of a concern to face in the finals between ATK Mohun Bagan and NorthEast United, Lobera highlights how both the teams will be tough to face. He shared how the Mariners have had a good season while Khalid Jamil for the Highlanders has shown the path for other Indian coaches.
“I think ATK Mohun Bagan have had an amazing season, they would be very difficult. I would congratulate NorthEast United too because of their coach (Khalid Jamil) who has proven that Indian coaches can be good in the league, which is great. But for me, it is important that we are in the final, whether it is NorthEast or ATK, that is not important,” he signed off.
