Bengaluru FC eye back-to-back win against solid Hyderabad – ISL 2022-23: Bengaluru FC Head Coach Simon Grayson said that his side were looking to build on last week’s result (against Jamshedpur FC) as they prepare for a second home fixture on the trot, against Hyderabad FC at the Kanteerava Stadium, on Friday. The Blues, who have 10 points from 10 games, are placed 8th on the League table, while Hyderabad come into the game in 2nd place with 22 points.
“I think we’ve mentioned all season, that you have to learn from each win, loss, and draw. There were certain aspects of last week’s game that were pleasing and others that we need to work on. It’s no coincidence that the three games we’ve won are all with clean sheets. If we can combine clean sheets, a positive attitude, and be a little more ruthless, regardless of who we play, we feel we can beat anyone,” said Grayson, speaking to the press on the eve of the game.
Bengaluru FC began their League campaign with a win over NorthEast United (1-0), but have since won just two fixtures in nine (1-0 against Jamshedpur FC and 2-0 against FC Goa). In the reverse fixture, a Bartholomew Ogbeche strike in the 83rd minute settled what was a close encounter at the Gachibowli Stadium.
“Hyderabad are a team that have been together for a long time. When we played them earlier in the League there was nothing in the game, and it was decided by fine margins. They’ve got some good players, including Ogbeche, and that’s why they’re at the top end of the League. It’s a good test for us, and we’ve got to build on the last game and do our best,” Grayson added.
Grayson provided an update on the fitness of Spanish midfielder Pablo Pérez, while also adding that several players were in line for a return to competitive action. “Pablo’s in a much better physical condition than he was when he joined us almost three weeks ago. He’s a very versatile player who can fit into a number of different positions, which makes it easy for me. At the same time, we have others like Udanta (Singh), Alan (Costa), and Bruno (Ramires) who are all close to returning to the squad,” said Grayson.
HFC Head Coach Manolo Marquez believes that Bengaluru are not far from finding their form. “ BFC are eight points off the qualifications spots and have to win this game. I am sure we will face a strong and determined team this Friday,” said the Spaniard.
Hyderabad, who beat Chennaiyin and East Bengal in their last two games, will be quietly confident on their trip to Bengaluru. HFC have lost just once on the road this season but will need a strong performance from the entire unit, in this game.
Bartholomew Ogbeche’s form could be a concern but the likes of Halicharan Narzary, Borja Herrera and Javi Siverio have turned up with the goods when needed.
Manolo Marquez also believes that his side will be ready for this tie. “We are into the second half of the competition and it only gets tougher now, like in every other league. But we will take it game by game and try to win every game,” he said.
The HFC backline has been in fine form this season as well, conceding just six goals, and keeping six clean sheets in their first 10 games this season. BFC have struggled in front of goal, with just seven goals scored so far but with their home fans pushing them, they will surely be a force to contend with in this game.
The game kicks off at 7:30 pm IST on Friday and will be telecasted live on the Star Sports Network with live streaming on Disney+ Hotstar and JioTV