Boumous credits togetherness within Goa group for success

At the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur, FC Goa (39 points from 18 matches), which recently opted for a change of guard, nailed its spot at the top of the Indian Super League (2019-20) standings to break into the AFC Champions League (2021) group stage.

Having taken ownership of the ‘ISL League Winner Shield’, the Clifford Miranda-managed outfit becomes the first club from this land to make a direct entry into the continental tournament proper. Hugo Boumous, the Gaurs’ midfield maestro from Morocco, attributed the team’s success to the camaraderie the players share on and off the field.  

“Everyone knows each other well, so it’s easier when we play on the pitch. There is good spirit within the club and all of us have become friends. These things are very important to achieve something,” Boumous told DT Next. Ahead of ISL 6, FC Goa managed to keep hold of key figures from last season, including six overseas members.  

The French-born Boumous remarked the progression over the years had so much to do with the continuity in the squad. “We have worked a lot together. Of course, most of the players we had in ISL 2018-19 are with us now as well and that makes a huge difference. There is good stability in the team,” he added.

Proud of what his side has accomplished so far, Boumous, an attacking midfielder by trade, said an elusive ISL title would be a cherry on top of the cake. “It feels great to be part of this club. I am delighted with the work everyone has put in in the last three years. I want our team to keep working and go for the ISL trophy.”

On a personal note, the 24-year-old is enjoying his most productive campaign with 11 goals and 10 assists in 14 appearances. “I have been putting in the hard yards to help my team. I think I have been more efficient (this season). But I still feel I can improve a lot more,” opined Boumous, who struck a deal with FC Goa in the 2018 January transfer window.