AIFF Media Team

MUMBAI: Mumbai FC are all set to lock horns against Sporting Club de Goa in their first match of the Hero Federation Cup 2016 at the Cooperage Stadium in May 01, 2016. The kick-off for which is at 7PM IST.

Speaking at the Official Pre Match Press Conference, Mumbai FC’s Head Coach Khalid Jamil said, "We have been good at Cooperage this Hero I-League season, but this is now Federation Cup we are talking about where definitely Sporting will field their strongest team."

“The last time we played Sporting they were the better side. We were lucky to get a point off them”

Applauding Sporting Goa’s homegrown talent, Jamil opined, "The Indian players in Sporting have been excellent this season. They are one of the few sides with quality homegrown players."

“We need to be wary of them come tomorrow”

Meanwhile Sporting Goa's gaffer Mateus Costa expressed that tomorrow’s clash would test the mettle of his Team.

“We have to give our cent percent against Mumbai if we are to get a favorable result tomorrow. Playing against Mumbai in Mumbai is always difficult and tomorrow will be a test of our credentials”, Costa stated.

Mumbai FC have been undefeated at Cooperage since their 0-6 loss against Shillong Lajong in the Hero I-League. With both Teams coming on the back of hefty wins, tomorrow’s clash is all set for a stellar showdown.

“Our last Hero I-League result will certainly help boost our morale in the Hero Federation Cup and hopefully we are able to put up a good show”

"Odafa (Okolie) and Amnah have not travelled with the squad as they are nursing injuries”, Costa informed.

The Sporting Goa manager expressed his desire to get his hands on the Hero Federation Cup and said that taking one match at a time is the best way forward.

"Every team wants to win the Federation Cup. Focus and concentration stays the key in Tournaments and once we play tomorrow’s match, then only will we gear up for the return tie”

“Every Football Player in India wants to play in a top level Tournament like the Hero Federation Cup and this year’s edition has given a lot of Players that opportunity”, Costa added.