Lot at stake in AFC Champions League: FC Goa coach

Goa, April 9 : FC Goa head coach Juan Ferrando conceded on Friday that his side will head into the AFC Champions League (Group E) match against Qatari outfit Al Rayyan SC with a lot at stake.Ferrandos team -- which earned the right to play in the tournament by topping the league stage of the 2019-20 Indian Super League (ISL) season -- will clash with Al Rayyan SC on April 14 and the preparations are on in full swing for the home team ahead of the clubs maiden experience in the continental competition.

"Its a lot of responsibility.Its my first time in Asia, in India, and at this club.

After six months, I know the players and the club but its a big responsibility because this is not a local competition but an international one.It will be like a presentation of Indian football to the world," said Ferrando."All the players have to be focused to work as a team, to be ready for 90 minutes.

The most important thing is to take everything day by day.Its not just about the first or the second game; there are six games which are very important for us," Ferrando said.Following their match against Al Rayyan, FC Goa will face United Arab Emirates Al Wahda as well as Irans most successful team Persepolis FC twice each in Group E (West Region) and Ferrando is aware of the task at hand that awaits his side in such a challenging group."I know its very, very difficult.

They (rivals) have very good players and a lot of experience in this competition.For them, it is a big moment to participate in the group stage and progress to the next round," he said.

"For us, its a great opportunity to learn, get some experience, and for our local players to know about international competition.Its different -- you need to focus for 90 minutes, work like a team.

In the Hero ISL, you have two-three players who have good crosses, good dribbling, they can help the team; in international competitions, you need to be a team, thats very important," Ferrando added.