ISL Final: Sunil Chhetri Acknowledges Bengaluru FC Fans Ahead of MBSG Showdown

Synopsis

As Bengaluru FC gears up to face Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the ISL final, Sunil Chhetri expresses his gratitude to fans for their unwavering support. Coach Gerard Zaragoza and goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu share their excitement and confidence ahead of this pivotal match at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan.

Key Takeaways

Sunil Chhetri thanks fans for their support.
Bengaluru FC faces Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the ISL final.
Coach Gerard Zaragoza expresses confidence in the team.
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu reflects on his journey in Kolkata.
MBSG aims to maintain their unbeaten home record.

Kolkata, April 11 (NationPress) As Bengaluru FC prepares to face the formidable defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the final on Saturday, former India captain Sunil Chhetri has shared a heartfelt message with their supporters. He expressed gratitude to the fans who have played a pivotal role in bringing the team to this momentous occasion at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK).

"I know many of you cannot be here, but never forget that it is you who have guided us to this point. We are fortunate to receive such love, and as the match approaches, I just wanted to express that we love you too," Chhetri stated in an Instagram post.

In the pre-match press briefing, Bengaluru FC Head Coach Gerard Zaragoza remarked, “We are highly motivated for the finals and thrilled for the upcoming game. Everything is in order. We feel confident, and Kolkata feels almost like our second home because of our time here during the Durand Cup. We had a solid playoff run and are eagerly anticipating the grand finale.”

This sentiment was mirrored by BFC goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, who reflected fondly on his long history with the city. “My journey as a professional footballer began here, and I’ve been fortunate to have had numerous opportunities to play matches from the start. I cherish this journey.

"Playing in significant games and finals in front of large crowds is an incredible experience, and I feel lucky to be in Kolkata for this match.” Gurpreet also acknowledged the strength of their opponents, stating, “Mohun Bagan Super Giant has been the standout team this season, and it’s undeniable that they earned the League Shield,” he added.

MBSG claimed the League Shield, while Bengaluru FC secured third place in the standings and successfully navigated the eliminator and semi-final stages to reach this championship clash.

This will mark Bengaluru FC's fourth appearance in the ISL finals in just eight seasons, while MBSG has become the first team to reach this stage three consecutive times. This upcoming match is a repeat of the ISL 2022-23 finale, where these two teams faced off, with the Kolkata-based side winning through penalties in a closely contested match.

They have the opportunity to replicate that success in front of an enthusiastic home crowd this time, while Bengaluru FC will draw confidence from their recent performance, aiming to end MBSG's unbeaten streak at home this season.