ISL Finale: Sunil Chhetri Expresses Gratitude to Bengaluru FC Supporters Ahead of MBSG Showdown

Synopsis

As Bengaluru FC gears up for the final against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Sunil Chhetri expresses heartfelt thanks to fans for their support. Coach Gerard Zaragoza and goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu share sentiments about the significance of the match and their journey in Kolkata.

Key Takeaways

Sunil Chhetri appreciates the fans' support.
Match held at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan.
Bengaluru FC aims for victory against MBSG.
Coaches and players reflect on their journey.
Opportunity to challenge MBSG's unbeaten home record.

Kolkata, April 11 (NationPress) As Bengaluru FC prepares to face the formidable challenge of defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the final on Saturday, former Indian captain Sunil Chhetri has addressed their supporters. He expressed his gratitude to the fans, acknowledging their role in bringing the team this far, just before their highly anticipated clash at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK).

"I understand that many of you may not be able to attend, but never forget that it is you who has carried us to this point. We feel fortunate to be cherished as we are, and before the match begins, I want to say we cherish you too," Chhetri mentioned in an Instagram post.

During the pre-match press conference, Bengaluru FC Head Coach Gerard Zaragoza stated, “We are extremely motivated for the finals and thrilled about the game. Everything is going smoothly. We’re confident, and Kolkata feels like our second home after our experience during the Durand Cup. We had a solid playoff run and are eager for the grand finale.”

This sentiment was shared by BFC goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, who reminisced about his long-standing connection with the city. “My journey as a professional footballer began here, and I’ve been fortunate to have had opportunities to play from the start. I am thankful for this experience.

"Playing in significant matches and finals in front of large crowds is an exhilarating experience, and I feel fortunate to be here for this match in Kolkata.” Gurpreet also extended praise to their opponents, noting, “MBSG has been the standout team this season, which is evident from their League Shield victory,” he remarked.

MBSG are the League Shield winners, while Bengaluru FC finished third in the standings and navigated through eliminator and semi-final challenges to reach the final.

This marks BFC's fourth appearance in the ISL finals in just eight seasons, while MBSG has made history by reaching this stage for the third consecutive time. This matchup is a repeat of the ISL 2022-23 finale, where these two teams faced off, with the Kolkata team winning through penalties in a tightly contested match.

They have the opportunity to replicate that success before an enthusiastic home crowd this time, while Bengaluru FC will draw confidence from their recent performance to challenge MBSG’s unbeaten home record this season.