Goa are still looking for their first win over Atlético de Kolkata, after being held to a 0-0 draw in Kolkata in the first leg of their semi-final. Head coach Zico, however, is confident that his side can break their duck against Kolkata in the second leg and get the result they need to make it to the final.“As I have said before, it is a game of 180 minutes,” said the Goa gaffer at the post-match press conference. “The first 90 minutes are over and now we have to see how the next 90 minutes go. I am 100% confident and I hope that we win the next match.”The Brazilian legend brushed aside concerns that the second was any more difficult as a result of the first-leg draw. “It will be a difficult game as it was before. These are two strong teams.”Zico was asked about the physicality of Kolkata’s play and whether it put his team off, but he said that the intensity with which Kolkata played was no different than usual, especially given the stakes. “The games in the last phases are always very compact. It is always very difficult,” stated the 61-year-old. “We were expecting a physical game like last time.” Left-back Narayan Das, who has been one of the standout performers for Goa throughout the season, unfortunately had to be taken off early in the game after injury, and Zico said the 21-year-old may miss the second leg, as well.“I think it will be difficult for him to play the next match since he got a serious injury,” rued Zico. “We will have to wait for the doctor’s report. We hope that it is not a serious injury.”Zohib Amiri, the Afghan midfielder who has become a vital cog in the middle of the park for Goa, said that he and his teammates did not struggle to cope with Das’ injury and the subsequent reshuffle. “We are one team and we practice very hard. We are always ready to play in any position that coach tells us to,” said Amiri.The 27-year-old gushed about the experience of playing under former Brazil World Cupper Zico. “It is a dream come true for any football player to practice under coach Zico. Every day we learn new things from him. It’s a great opportunity for us!”Zico will be hoping that Amiri and the rest of the team will be able to put his teachings over the next few days to good use as they prepare for the crucial second leg at home in Fatorda. A place in the first Hero Indian Super League final, and a shot at history, is at stake.
