ISL 2025-26: FC Goa Head Coach Manolo Marquez Admits Poor First Half After Draw Against Punjab FC

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ISL 2025-26: Head coach Manolo Márquez admitted that FC Goa were fortunate to come away with a point after their 1-1 draw against Punjab FC in the Indian Super League 2025-26 clash.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Márquez said his side produced a disappointing first-half performance and were lucky that the game turned after Punjab were reduced to ten men.

"We played a very bad first half. I think Punjab deserved the three points already in the first half," Márquez said. "We were lucky with the red card and were able to equalise the game."

Poor First-Half Performance

Punjab controlled the opening half and went into the break with the advantage before striker Nsungusi Effiong was sent off early in the second half following an altercation with defender Pol Moreno. The dismissal shifted the momentum and allowed Goa to get back into the contest.

Despite the numerical advantage, Márquez felt his side failed to create enough chances to secure the win.

"Punjab was controlling the game totally. Even after the red card, we didn't create enough chances to win," he said, adding that he was disappointed with the overall performance of his team.

Concern Over Mentality and Confidence

The Spanish coach also expressed concern about the mentality and confidence of some players, especially in attacking positions, stating that composure in front of goal remains a key difference at the highest level.

"In modern football, you cannot win only with the name," he said. "Punjab were hungrier than us in the first half and won most of the second balls."

However, Márquez pointed out that remaining unbeaten after five matches was a positive for the team, even though he expected better performances.

"There are always good and bad games during a season, but today was probably our worst performance so far," he admitted.

Finishing Remains A Key Issue

The coach acknowledged that some players were struggling with confidence in front of goal, citing forward Mohammad Yasir as an example of a player working to regain form after injury.

Márquez also reflected on the broader issue of finishing ability among Indian forwards, referencing a legendary striker as a benchmark for consistency in front of goal.

"Sunil can miss a chance and still score the next one minutes later. That mentality and confidence are what many players still need to develop," he said.

Despite the frustrations, the Goa coach maintained that the team remains competitive and will look to improve its performance in the next match against Chennaiyan FC. With this win, the Gaurs go to the fourth position on the ISL table.