ISL Playoffs: BFC Players Eager for More, Says Zaragoza Ahead of SF Against Goa

Bengaluru, April 1 (NationPress) Bengaluru FC aims to maintain the momentum from their stunning 5-0 playoff triumph against Mumbai City as they prepare to face FC Goa in the opening leg of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 semifinal at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on Wednesday.

The Blues, having secured their place in the semifinals with a dominant display against the Islanders, are eager to capitalize on their home advantage before heading to Fatorda for the return leg on Sunday.

“This semifinal features two formidable teams, and the depth of both squads will play a crucial role. No one in my squad believes we’ve accomplished our goal. The players are eager and hungry for more,” stated head coach Gerard Zaragoza, addressing the media before the match.

Finishing third in the league with 38 points, Zaragoza’s side has regained their early-season form just in time for the knockout phase, and the Spaniard is determined to ensure his team sustains their high-energy approach against a well-organized Goa team that finished second in the league with 48 points.

Bengaluru and Goa clashed twice during the league stages, with the Gaurs claiming a 3-0 victory at Fatorda. However, in the return fixture at Kanteerava, the Blues mounted a resilient comeback from a two-goal deficit to earn a 2-2 draw. Notably, Goa has yet to defeat Bengaluru FC at Kanteerava in the league.

Captain Sunil Chhetri, who scored in the playoff match, continues to lead the Blues in goals with 13 this season. This impressive strike marks his ninth goal in twelve ISL knockout games, as he aims for more against the Gaurs.

Ryan Williams (seven goals, four assists) and Edgar Mendez (eight goals, four assists) have been instrumental in the attack, while midfielder Alberto Noguera (five goals, four assists) has played a vital role in linking play and providing creative energy. Argentine striker Jorge Pereyra Diaz made an immediate impact upon returning from injury, scoring the fifth goal against his former team and assisting another.

For FC Goa, Sandesh Jhingan and Odei Onaindia are key defensive figures, with the midfield featuring Borja Herrera (five goals, four assists) and the adaptable Dejan Drazic. Up front, Albanian striker Armando Sadiku (nine goals) and Iker Guarrotxena (seven goals, three assists) share the scoring duties alongside Brison Fernandes (seven goals).

Both teams favor a fast-paced, possession-driven style, promising a tactically captivating matchup. Bengaluru FC will strive to leverage their home advantage, while FC Goa aims to secure a favorable outcome ahead of the second leg. The Blues’ defense, led by Chinglensana Singh and Rahul Bheke, must remain solid against a Goa side that excels in possession and swift transitions.

“The support from the fans endures throughout the 90 minutes at Kanteerava. During a game, you might dominate for 10-15 minutes and then experience a brief lapse. However, when the fans back you during those dips, it helps us recover quickly. That’s what makes it special,” said defender Aleksandar Jovanovic, who joined Zaragoza at the press conference.

“Both teams are aware of each other’s strengths. I want the players and fans to approach FC Goa with the same intensity we showed against Mumbai. We must be prepared to start and finish the match strongly tomorrow and head to Goa with momentum,” Zaragoza concluded.