BFC hopeful of ending year on a high in Chennai

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru/Chennai: Chennaiyin FC, languishing in the bottom half of the table, stand in the way of Gerard Zaragoza’s ambitions to close 2024 on a high. Bengaluru FC will face off against the Marina Machans at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Saturday. The Blues, fresh from a 2-2 draw with FC Goa in their previous fixture, take on a Chennaiyin side that has managed just one win in their last six games. “Chennaiyin are a strong team. They have a different style of play and are dangerous with their crosses and set-pieces.

We need to be better in those situations to ensure we secure a positive result in this game,” Zaragoza said at the pre-match press conference. The Blues sit second in the table, trailing leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant and ahead of a chasing pack led by FC Goa. Meanwhile, Chennaiyin’s inconsistency has hindered their push for a playoff spot. The Owen Coyle-coached side currently occupies ninth place with 15 points. Bengaluru will aim to address their recurring issue of conceding early goals and focus on making a strong start away from home. Sunil Chhetri has been the standout performer with nine goal contributions this season, ably supported by Edgar Mendez, who has seven goal involvements in 11 matches.

Ryan Williams has also made a significant impact since returning from injury, scoring three goals in five appearances. “We are finishing games strongly, but we need to start them well and control the tempo. I’ve always emphasized to the players the importance of controlling games,” Zaragoza concluded.