Odisha FC assistant coach Kino Sanchez believes his side is prepared with counter-attack plans of their own as they take on Hyderabad FC in match 43 of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2021-22 at Athletic Stadium, Bambolim on Tuesday.

Odisha FC is seventh in the points table with 10 points in seven matches. The club has only managed to win one match in their last five matches while losing three.

In their last match, Odisha FC played out a 1-1 draw against FC Goa. Jonathas de Jesus scored the equaliser for them around the hour mark. The match was evenly contested as both the teams had equal possession and shots on goal.

Ahead of Odisha FC’s match against Hyderabad FC, assistant coach Sanchez, coach Kiko Ramirez, and forward Nandhakumar Sekar addressed the media during the official pre-match press conference.

Here is the excerpt from Sanchez’s press conference.

How have you analysed Hyderabad FC’s performance this season?

Sanchez: Of course, we like their style of play. Kiko is good friends with Manuel (Marquez). We faced them in the pre-season. They manage the ball well and don’t take many risks. They know how to create dangerous situations for opposition. We have analysed them and know how to counter-attack their strengths.

Here are the excerpts from Ramirez’s press conference.

What do you think about Hyderabad FC?

Ramirez: They are a compact team. They have been together for a long time and know each other. They are in good momentum and rank higher in the table. They have a good striker who’s in good shape.

Odisha FC started the season on a high. Where do you think things went wrong afterwards?

Ramirez: The competition is intense so you can’t win all the matches. Anyways we are not far from the top four. After seven matches we are happy that we are only three points away from the top four spot despite playing one game less. 

Here are the excerpts from Nandhakumar’s press conference.

You have been part of the club for a long time, what difference do you see this year?

Nandhakumar: I am happy to be here. Every year we have struggled to qualify for the playoffs but this time I am confident that the team will achieve its target. I am very proud of the coaching staff and everyone.

Do you think this has been the best start for OFC?

Nandhakumar: Yes, of course. For the first time we started really well. We started the season with three wins.