KOLKATA: After their record 7-0 win over Mumbai City FC, FC Goa have emerged as the team to beat but coach Zico said it's all in the past as they look forward to take on defending champions Atletico de Kolkata in the Indian Super League football tournament here tomorrow.
"It doesn't matter that we won 7-0. It did not guarantee us anything. It's football and there's no relaxing. The victory didn't decide anything. We know if we don't win the games ahead of us, it will be a problem for us," Zico said.
ATK boast of an invincible record against Goa but Zico pointed out that they have been beaten just once.
"We have no rivalry. We had five games, they won once, others were draw (while another in the semifinal was decided in penalty shootout). I have great respect for (Antonio) Habas, he's a great coach. But we are not searching for revenge. The focus on our game tomorrow and reach our objective," he said.
"I am here to do my job and not worry about others. I don't want to be better anyone. I am just looking to fulfil myplans," he added.
Clear on his plans, Zico said their team needs three points from four matches to seal a last four berth which will be their first objective.
"I've four games to score three points to make last four. I think any team can be on top four, the league is very tight at the moment," he said.
Asked whether he's looking at a longer association with India, he said: "I've two years contract. I will give everything that I've to FCG. I am not thinking anything beyond."
Zico was also happy to see the Indian talents on board this time as he mentioned Indian and Mumbai captain Sunil Chhetri, Eugeneson Lyngdoh and T Haokip as special talents.
"Last year many of the layers were missed out from India but this time everyone was available and it was great to see Sunil, he's showing a lot of skill. Also players like Eugeneson Lyngdoh and Haokip are quite talented."
"The main difference is the way all the teams playing away games. They're winning more away games this time. so the league is becoming very very close. The average age of the foreign players is also below last year which I think is better for Indian football," Zico said.
His advice to Indian national team is to go for more and more overseas exposure trips.
Citing example of his stint in Japan, the Brazilian great said: "I can give one personal example that of Japan national team. When I was there I always tried to play good teams. Today you can see the result."
"I have never heard Indian team making trip to South America or Europe. If they play better teams they will become better, so they can always plan in a better way."