With just ISL experience, it’s difficult to match teams in Asia: Manolo Marquez

Panaji: FC Goa could have so easily pocketed at least a point, if not more, from their AFC Champions League Two opener against Al Zawraa early this month.

Playing at home, Goa measured up to the challenge against the Iraqi visitors, had 20 shots – though just two on target – and looked in control of the proceedings, creating chances. That, in the end, the hosts ended with nothing as Al Zawraa scored twice did not come as a surprise to coach Manolo Marquez.

“I think, more or less, everyone has the same assessment of the game: that we played a good, sometimes very good, game, particularly in the second half, created chances, but did not score,” Manolo told TOI after a training session at Bambolim. “For me, what stands out is that our chances were always with opposition around (the ball). The only clear chance was of Ayush (Chhetri).

“The game showed us the reality (of playing in Asia). Goa needs to play these games every season. If the team wants to grow, we must qualify for Asian competitions every year because that’s the only way we can improve. If you play all the time against the same teams in ISL, it’s difficult (to match teams in ACL).”

The setback in the opener means Goa’s path to the knockout stage of the competition has only got tougher. Manolo’s side is the lowest-ranked side in the group. Al Nassr FC are the overwhelming favourites to top and qualify, while the experienced Iraq Stars League side would also fancy their chances.

So, where does that leave Goa, who face FC Istiklol in a must-win game in Tajikistan on Wednesday.

“Realistically, Al Nassr will be the champions of this group. Nobody has doubt that they will win all or most games in the group. We have possibilities (to win and qualify) but I feel we have to grow and improve with every game. I know I’m different when I think that it’s better to win the Super Cup (and qualify for Asian competitions) rather than win the ISL trophy (for the first time at the club). For me, to play again in Asia, would be fantastic,” said Manolo.

To qualify, Goa will have to win the ISL Shield or the Super Cup at home next month.

The Super Cup won’t be easy. Placed in a difficult group with Durand Cup winners NorthEast United FC, last year’s finalists Jamshedpur FC and I-League champions Inter Kashi, Goa will have to navigate the challenges and first make it to the semifinals.

Then there’s also the matter of playing five games in 14 days after months without any competitive encounter. “It’s difficult to qualify but in football, everything is possible.”

Al Nassr are on top of the group, after their 5-0 demolition of Istiklol at home. Even though captain Cristiano Ronaldo did not take the field – wasn’t even among the substitutes – the Saudi Pro League giants had enough firepower with stars like Joao Felix, Sadio Mane, Inigo Martinez, Kingsley Coman and Angelo Gabriel packing a punch.

“The (AFC) Champions League games are very important,” said Manolo. “You either win or gain valuable experience. When you play next season, the team will be better-equipped to handle situations like the one we encountered against Al Zawraa. We are learning.”