Brazilian striker Rafael Coelho believes that FC Goa's win over FC Pune City can be the catalyst that will win them a place in the semifinals of the Indian Super League football.
Coelho scored from a majestic free-kick in the first half to give FC Goa a solitary goal victory over FC Pune City in Pune yesterday. He's confident that Goa can continue with the same form in the second phase of the tournament.
"Well, this win was very important. We needed to start the second phase of games with good results to keep the motivation high and the win did that for us. We have a very good and talented squad so if we keep performing like we did yesterday, I don't see why we cannot make it to the semi-finals," said Coelho.
FC Goa's free-kick duties are normally reserved for specialists like Julio Cesar and Joffre Gonzalez but against Pune City, Coelho stepped-up and delivered much to the delight of FC Goa supporters.
Surprisingly, it was for the first time that the former Brazilian international scored directly from a free-kick.
"Actually this is the first time I've ever scored a goal directly from a free kick. I do a bit of practice on free-kicks and do try different methods to get the ball in the back of the net. I was aiming to make sure I put the ball on target yesterday and as close to the post as possible. It did feel amazing to have scored when the team needed it," he said.
The win lifted FC Goa out of the bottom for the first time. Last year's finalists Goa now have seven points from eight matches as they registered only their second win of the campaign.
Chief coach Zico has set a target of five victories from their seven matches in the second phase. With one already under their belt, there is growing confidence that they can turn the tables.
"The team is happy and very satisfied with the victory. This was a very important game for us against a very tough opposition. This gives us the motivation to go one step further in the next match. Our focus is now on the next match," said Coelho.
FC Goa face Kerala Blasters in their next match in Kochi on November 8.
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