Hyderabad, Jan 17 (NationPress) Hyderabad FC is set to welcome Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 at the G.M.C. Balayogi Athletic Stadium this Saturday.

The Blues currently occupy the third position in the standings with 27 points from 15 matches, while Hyderabad FC finds itself at the bottom with 9 points from the same number of games. The visitors started the season strongly but have seen a dip in form, trailing league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant by 8 points. With nine matches remaining in the regular season, they must secure points to keep their title aspirations alive.

Bengaluru FC faced a setback in their last outing, suffering a 0-1 defeat to Mohammedan SC. This marked a rare occurrence where they went two matches without scoring, a trend not seen since before Gerard Zaragoza became the head coach in December 2023. However, this season has shown improved consistency in their attack, amassing 28 goals compared to Hyderabad FC's 11. Notably, four of Hyderabad FC’s goals this season have come in their last five matches, where they recorded two draws and three losses.

A win for Hyderabad FC would extend their unbeaten home streak against the Blues to four matches. Conversely, Bengaluru FC is eager to avoid a third consecutive loss to maintain pressure on teams in the upper half of the table.

This match presents an important opportunity for both teams, with Bengaluru FC aiming to overcome their away struggles and Hyderabad FC looking to rebound from a challenging season.

Hyderabad FC has conceded 26 goals from inside the box, which interestingly matches the number of goals Bengaluru FC has scored from that area this season. Although Hyderabad FC has found the net in their last two home games, they have only managed to score once in each of their previous three home encounters against Bengaluru FC. They must enhance their scoring capabilities to capitalize on Bengaluru FC's recent away difficulties.

Bengaluru FC has netted 26 goals from within the box this season, second only to Odisha FC (28). Their offensive lineup, featuring key players like Sunil Chhetri (9), Ryan Williams (5), and Edgar Mendez (4), looks to dominate the scoring opportunities against Hyderabad FC.

The Blues enter this match following two consecutive defeats, a situation they aim to rectify to mount a serious challenge for the top position.

Interim head coach of Hyderabad FC, Shameel Chembakath, urged his players to focus on their game rather than fixate on points.

“The instruction has always been straightforward: don’t dwell on the three points. This approach keeps us in a good mindset,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Bengaluru FC's head coach, Gerard Zaragoza, emphasized the enjoyment derived from their style of play.

“Our goal is to relish how we play football. Winning is essential, and losing is unpleasant, but we also want our supporters to enjoy the match,” he remarked.