“The Past can inspire the Present”: Jofre calls on FC Goa and fans to believe in the Comeback Dream
FC Goa’s hopes of reaching the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 final hang in the balance as they gear up for the second leg of their semi-final clash against Bengaluru FC on Sunday. After a 2-0 defeat in the first leg in Bengaluru, the Gaurs have it all to do at home in Fatorda – but if there is one person who knows what it takes to mount a memorable comeback in front of the home faithful, it is club legend Jofre Mateu Gonzalez.
The former Spanish midfield maestro, who was instrumental in Goa’s thrilling turnaround in the 2015 semi-finals against Delhi Dynamos FC, has a simple yet stirring message for the team: “See it as a new game. And just believe.”
In 2015, the Men in Orange lost the semi-final first leg 1-0 in Delhi. With their backs against the wall, they returned to a roaring Fatorda and unleashed a footballing masterclass – a 3-0 win with goals from Jofre himself, Raphael Coelho and Dudu Omagbemi, sealing a dramatic place in the final.
“We trusted our own abilities”
Reflecting on that unforgettable night, Jofre’s voice still carries the emotion of the occasion.
“What I remember is that we had to win at home. The first leg wasn’t the best game in terms of the end result, and we knew that we could beat them (Delhi Dynamos),” he said. “Everyone in the team believed in each other. Coach Zico told us the previous game was now a thing of the past – and that this was a new game. And that’s the most important point.”
His words ring just as true today as they did nearly a decade ago. This Sunday is not about what happened in Bengaluru – it is about what can happen at Fatorda.
A season worth believing in
Jofre has kept a close eye on his former Club and is clearly impressed by their progress.
“To finish second in the league with 48 points in 24 matches is very good. The first leg of the semi-finals in Bengaluru wasn’t very bad either, in terms of performance. What’s ahead is a completely new game – the boys just need to continue believing.”
There is pride in his tone when he speaks of FC Goa’s growth through the years – of setbacks turned into strength, of missed chances turned into motivation. “If you keep on dreaming, and if you maintain the feeling that you can make it, you will surely end up getting what you want,” he said.
“This team is one of the best in the country, and they’ve shown that even setbacks can’t keep them down for long.”
The Fatorda effect
Much like in 2015, the atmosphere at Fatorda on Sunday could be the spark that lights the fire.
“It was special – not just in the stadium, but even all along the way,” Jofre recalled. “It impacted not just us, but the opponents too. I remember some of them wishing they had an atmosphere like that in their own home stadium and home city.”
“Everyone knows how the people in Goa support their team. It’s something that’s truly unique. It’s a force. And that force will matter tomorrow.”
A message to the Faithful
Before signing off, Jofre turned his attention to the fans – the ever-passionate heartbeat of FC Goa.
“First, thank you – because I know for a fact that you’ll fill the stadium once again tomorrow. But also, be aware of how much exactly the team needs you,” he said. “The pressure you put on the opposition by backing your team, that’s crucial. You’re going to be a huge factor. And I’m sure that with your support, the team is going to give a proper response.”
Come Sunday, it will be eleven players on the pitch. But it will also be thousands of fans in the stands, a Club with a legacy, and the echo of past comebacks pushing FC Goa forward.
As Jofre reminds us – the past can inspire the present. The dream is still alive. And now, it’s time to chase it.
