Clifford Miranda could not have asked for a better start to his managerial role at Odisha FC. The Juggernauts pulled off a brilliant comeback win against Hyderabad FC in their final group stage match to cement their spot in the semi-finals of the Hero Super Cup 2023.

Miranda, who was known for his creativity in the middle of the park during his playing time, has now mastered himself for leading his team through crucial stages of the season. Miranda has always been impressive during his short spells, be it with FC Goa previously or with Odisha FC now.

The Odisha FC head coach was delighted by his players' character and determination as they clinched the top of the table spot and made it to the semi-finals of the Hero Super Cup for the first time.

“We drew the first game (against East Bengal FC), when we came back from behind, and then again overturned a deficit against Hyderabad FC to win the match, so I feel the boys have shown how mentally strong they are. They do not back down when things get tough, and that’s a special mentality to have,” Miranda said to the-aiff.com after reaching the semi-final.

The former Indian international, who joined the club as an assistant coach ahead of the Hero ISL 2022-23 season, took complete charge of the team after they parted ways with former head coach Josep Gombau. Since taking over the reins from the Spaniard, Miranda has attracted praise for the brand of football the Juggernauts have played so far.

“To be honest, it was already a set team when we took over, and the previous coach (Josep) Gombau had done a great job. After I took over, I merely tweaked a couple of things and the players responded very well, he explained.

Odisha FC will now face the winners of Group D in the semi-final of the Super Cup on April 22 at the Payyanad Stadium, in Manjeri. Miranda urges his side to stay focused as they start preparing for the knockout round. 

“We obviously are looking forward to the semi-finals. Of course, we will keep an eye out for who our opponents will be, but regardless of that, our approach will be the same,” Miranda said.

“We want to put ourselves in a good position to go further to the finals,” he concluded.

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