Ahead of the clash against the Iranian giants Persepolis FC in the reverse fixture of AFC Champions League, FC Goa’s midfielder Brandon Fernandes addressed the media alongside head-coach Juan Ferrando.
In the recently concluded game against Persepolis, FC Goa fell short by just a goal, even after leading in the early minutes of the game. The full-time scoreline was 2-1.
“We got an early goal. As you know, Persepolis is one of the best teams in Asia. They pushed harder after we scored and additionally they got a penalty. I think their morale went up and they kept attacking,” said Brandon Fernandes.
The 26-year-old joined FC Goa in 2017 and has been a crucial player for the Gaurs since then, where he usually plays as an attacking-midfielder and has been known for his speciality for providing breathtaking assists.
“For me, the level of ISL is really good but the AFC Champions League level is very different. Here the intensity is high as the teams play a lot quicker, more pressing and you get less time on the ball. It’s a great learning opportunity for us.
“Have always wanted to play abroad, but right now this is the stage where I can showcase my talent. The games we played has been good. Still, I have to improve more,” he added.
The first goal in AFC Champions League for FC Goa as well as for the whole country was scored by captain Edu Bedia, who was assisted by none other than Brandon Fernandes on the set-piece. Moreover, the young Indian playmaker has assisted all three goals for the national team in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers 2022.
“Whenever I take the set-pieces. It’s a simple thing for me to put the ball into space. Every time, I hope that my teammates will score on it,” said Brandon Fernandes.
Also Read – FC Goa vs Persepolis FC – Preview, Predicted lineup and more
In the second match against Al-Wahda, Brandon hit the goal post while against Persepolis his shot was blocked by Hamed Lak.
“Unfortunately, In the second match, I can’t score because I hit the post. In the last game, I had a similar opportunity but the goalkeeper made a brilliant save. Whenever I am in the position to score the goal, I try to keep the ball in the control and deliver it into the nets,” the number-ten of FC Goa concluded.
Skipper Edu Bedia will miss the upcoming fixture due to suspension as he has two yellow cards accumulated in his name.
Follow IFTWC via our website, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Telegram pages/channels for all the latest updates on Indian Football and download our app from the play store.