Chennaiyin FC head coach Marco Materazzi can’t wait to get his first win of the season. The defending champions started their 2016 Hero Indian Super League campaign with a 2-2 draw against Atlético de Kolkata but it was their 3-1 defeat by Delhi Dynamos FC that raised concerns regarding the quality of their title defence. Materazzi spoke to the media ahead of his side’s home game against FC Goa at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Thursday and insisted it was an important game for the Super Machans.“It is very important to bounce back. Last year we were in a worse position than now. We have to show that we still have it and we can do it,” Materazzi told reporters on Wednesday.“Unfortunately, you cannot be 100% confident. We can only try to make fewer mistakes from last game. We have to show our love towards this club because the last game was the worst we have played.”When asked if there was a lack of cohesion among his players leading to their underwhelming performance so far, Materazzi said: “I always say, you win as a team, you lose as a team. It’s not about individuals. They need to have that mentality. Even if you have the tactical or technical skills, you need to fight to get that win. This, I will tell my players before the match that they have to show the hunger and will to win.”Materazzi also said FC Goa’s loss in the 2015 Hero ISL final will make them all the more motivated for Thursday’s game. “If I was leading in the 88th or 89th minute and then I lose at the end of a final, I will be upset as well and they will show the hunger to win. But we are coming from a loss as well and we too have to put something more. We have to make the semis. If we cannot, it will be bad for us. At the end of the day we have to make calculations and see what’s happening and if things do not go well then maybe I will not be here as head coach for next year. But we have to show our love for the club and we have to win. Let’s hope for the best.”The World Cup-winning Italian also provided an update on the fitness status of his team. “All are available. It is a good thing for a manager or head coach to have everyone to choose from. So I have had time to think about the last game, to think about my choices. As I’ve said earlier, whoever deserves to play will play. Last game, if I could have changed the entire 11 or 12, including me, I would have changed but regulations allow to change only three. So I’ve had time to think about it and tomorrow I will play my best 11,” he said.
