ISL 2023-24: Great win against a great team – NorthEast United FC’s Juan Benali after win against FC Goa

NorthEast United FC head coach Juan Pedro Benali was delighted after their 2-0 win against FC Goa in the 16th Matchweek of the Indian Super League at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa on Wednesday. Benali said it was a great win against a great opposition.

Tomi Juric scored his fifth goal of the season in his fourth game for the Highlanders as the Australian striker converted from a spot-kick in the 69th minute after the first half ended at 0-0. Odei Onaindia then scored an own goal to squash any hopes of a comeback for the Gaurs.

This was FC Goa’s only second loss of the season and the Highlanders were able to stun the hosts. The visitors had 38.8% possession and took a single shot on target but importantly they were able to take three points from the game.

“(It was a) good game. First half, we stopped to see how FC Goa were playing and everything,” Benali stated in the post-match press conference.

“In the second half, we knew what was going on and we talked in the dressing room that we could hurt them and we (did so) from the set pieces,” he added.

Talking about the significance of the victory Benali said, “(It is) a great win against a great team. And today, it was our day.”

When asked if he was surprised to see Noah Sadaoui on the bench for FC Goa, Benali commented, “No (I was not surprised), the thing is that FC Goa have another two games in quick succession after us. Manolo (Marquez) knows that very well and they thought that this is the best option.”

NorthEast United FC will next take on Hyderabad FC at the GMC Balayogi Stadium on 4th March.