The presence of in-form goalkeepers on both ends, Bengaluru FC’s Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and Vishal Kaith for FC Pune City, may create trouble for the forwards to score in the Indian Super League (ISL) first-leg semifinal at the Balewadi stadium here on Wednesday.
With players like Miku, Udanta Singh and skipper Sunil Chhetri in its ranks, Bengaluru has the ability to dominate. In his debut season, Gurpreet leads the Golden Glove list (six clean sheets, 38 saves in 16 matches). Even Marcelinho, the opponent skipper, rates him as the best custodian in the tournament. Gurpreet is quick to react to situations and with his huge frame, he can intimidate forwards.
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Miku earned ‘Hero of the Match’ award in two league encounters involving Bengaluru and Pune.
Pune earned a place among the four semifinalists after three seasons of underachievement. They flaunt players like Emiliano Alfaro, Marcelinho and Adil Khan — expert at sneaking the ball past defenders.
Kaith is smaller in built, but he is fast as well. He has saved many diving at full stretch.
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“We need to express ourselves the way we have been throughout the season. We have done very well so far, and not going all the way will be disappointing. Nothing will be decided tomorrow, we need to play good in both games to make it to the final,” reasoned Popovic, Pune coach.
The two exciting sides, making a first-time appearance in the play-offs, will move to Kanteerva stadium in Bengaluru for the second leg on March 11, Sunday.
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