FC Goa sealed a semi-final berth in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 after beating Jamshedpur FC 3 – 0 at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on Sunday. The Spanish duo of Ferran Corominas and Manuel Lanzarote were at it again, scoring the goals for the Gaurs. Jamshedpur also had their keeper Subrata Paul sent off early in the game, of which the visitors took full advantage before their own custodian Naveen Kumar was shown a straight red.

Goa qualify as the third-placed team and addressing the media during the post-match press conference was their head coach Sergio Lobera, who pointed out that having a man-advantage does not necessarily give a team an edge at all times. “I think every game has important moments,” he stated. “It may seem that playing against 10 men is easier, but it does not always work out like that. Sometimes playing against ten men can be difficult. But our team knew what to do in the right moments and managed the game well tactically. I am very happy that my players did their job because it is tough to come and play here in Jamshedpur.”

The Spaniard also acknowledged his opponents’ strength, admitting that the encounter was a tough one. “Jamshedpur are a tough side and going into our game, they had a chance of making it to the semi-finals,” he said. “That made them very dangerous for us. They are a good side and had conceded the least number of goals, while also keeping the maximum clean sheets. And today we scored three goals against such a team.”

Before wrapping up, Lobera also mentioned how the team would prepare for their semi-final fixture against Chennaiyin FC. “Now we are thinking about the fact that our first match will be at home,” the 41-year-old said. “It has been a tough period for us, having played four matches in 15 days. The team has to recover quickly in time for the semi-finals and the 180 minutes of football will be difficult. But I have faith on my team and know that if we maintain the level of football we are playing now, we will achieve what we are aiming for.”