The experience of having been in an Indian Super League (ISL) final last year will stand Bengaluru FC in good stead, said Sunil Chhetri ahead of Sunday's summit clash.
FC Goa and Bengaluru are chasing their maiden ISL titles and we will have a new champion on Sunday, and Chhetri said he hopes his club has "ticked all the boxes".
Speaking minutes before kick-off at Mumbai Football Arena, Chhetri said, "[We're] looking forward to it. We don't have any injuries after the two difficult games against NorthEast United FC; except Erik paartalu. Everyone is pumped up. We have been here, where we have lost the final. I just hope we have ticked all the boxes before we take the pitch today."
Chhetri complimented Bengaluru's opponent, FC Goa, saying "they are a very, very good side", while denying his team holds a psychological edge after beating the Sergio Lobera's team home and away in the league.
"That [winning the league fixtures] means nothing for today. They are a very, very good side. I don't think the past performances hold any meaning today. This is the first time we are playing against each other in a neutral venue. I like playing in this ground. I hope we can win the trophy night."
About the team's game-plan, Chhetri said, "Be compact, make sure we don't give them space. They are a team blessed with individuals who can turn the game in a matter of seconds and also believe in our own star power with Miku, Udanta [Singh] and others. I just hope we are the team who makes the least mistakes on the pitch."
