FC Goa take on Mumbai City FC with the hope of continuing their unbeaten run in the Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) 2019-20 at the Mumbai Football Arena on Thursday.

Fresh off a late draw against NorthEast United FC, the Gaurs will hope to keep it tight at the back and prevent the Mumbai City attackers from getting much joy in the game. Speaking to indiansuperleague.com in an exclusive interview, FC Goa defender Mourtada Fall opened up about his partnership with Carlos Pena in the heart of Goa’s defence and more. Here are excerpts from the interview.

How are FC Goa players reacting to the three-match unbeaten run?

The team has worked very well, although it is just the start and we have played only three matches. We have a lot more matches to play. For me, the performance was good. But only three matches have been played. We need to work and improve to be at the top. At this level, five points from three games is good.

How have FC Goa managed to improve their set-piece execution this season?

Yes, we work every week on set-pieces, to try to score from set-pieces, because sometimes our attacking players don't get a lot of chances. Sometimes you can win matches from set-pieces. Last match, we came back and scored in the last minute, we got one point because of that goal. In football, it is important to work on set-pieces.

You assisted Manvir Singh's late equaliser in the last match. Thoughts.

For me, the most important thing is not the passing but the finishing of Manvir (Singh). That is important. If I can give a good pass but nobody is in the box to finish, for me it will be like I did that for nothing. For me, the one point he salvaged at the last minute was more important.

How are FC Goa approaching the match against Mumbai City FC?

It is different, every match is a new situation. You can't control it. Last season, it was good for me (because I scored twice) against Mumbai. We will try again to win. It is important that the team gains three points.

How has your partnership with Carlos Pena helped FC Goa?  

Yeah, we are always working (together). We are only three matches in, coming from pre-season, playing three matches, you have to work together, continue to improve. Every match is different, and we will try to be at a good level

Read the Match Preview here.