Ahead of Jamshedpur FC’s Crucial Clash Against Mohun Bagan- Steven Dias Shares Insights

UditVani, Jamshedpur: In an interview, Jamshedpur FC’s Assistant Coach Steven Dias discusses the team’s strategy, challenges, and preparations ahead of their high-stakes Indian Super League match against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in Kolkata.

1. Your team has faced back-to-back heavy defeats. Mohun Bagan is in a strong position. How are you boosting your team ahead of this match?

The last two matches didn’t go as planned. Against NorthEast, we received a red card in the first half, which disrupted our game. In the following match, we conceded three quick goals. However, every team goes through such phases. What matters is how quickly we bounce back. The short break helped reset the mood, and the team is working hard with a positive mindset. We aim to secure a positive result in tomorrow’s match.

1. You were known for performing well against Kolkata clubs as a player. Now, as a coach, how do you view this opportunity? Is there added pressure?
2. I have always enjoyed pressure, both as a player and now as a coach. Facing a team like Mohun Bagan is a great challenge. Playing against Kolkata clubs used to be a dream for me, though I never got to represent one. Now, standing on the sidelines as a coach is a different but equally exciting experience. I thrive under pressure and see it as motivation rather than a burden.
3. Key players like Jordan Murray and Lazar Cirkovic are unavailable due to injuries. Will this impact the team?
4. Of course, we’ll miss players like Jordan and Lazar, as they bring valuable quality to the squad. However, we have equally capable Indian players who have been performing well. We are confident in their abilities and believe they can step up in their absence. Our focus remains on teamwork and collective effort.
5. Your team has conceded 10 goals in two matches. How are you addressing this defensively? And what will be the approach, playing for one point or going all out for three?
6. Conceding 10 goals was tough, and it did affect the players’ morale. The break allowed them to regroup and refocus. In training, I see a renewed competitiveness and team unity. Regarding the match approach, there’s no plan to aim just for one point. We will play our game, adapt to situations, and aim for the best possible result.
7. Mohun Bagan has several strong players. What’s your plan to counter their threats?
8. Mohun Bagan is a strong team with quality players across the board, not just in one or two positions. Our focus is on stopping their collective attacking threat. We’ve worked on staying compact and solid defensively to counter their strengths. It’s all about teamwork and executing the plan effectively.