Bengaluru FC Eye Historic Victory at Odisha FC Fortress in Crucial ISL Clash
Bengaluru FC, riding high on their impressive all-round form, will be aiming to breach Odisha FC home advantage when the two sides meet in an exciting Indian Super League (ISL) encounter at the Kalinga Stadium on Sunday.
Bengaluru FC have been in sensational form since the start of the season, functioning like a well-oiled machine across both home and away fixtures. The Blues, currently atop the ISL table, have managed to secure two wins from their four away games—only the second time in their history that they’ve achieved such a feat in their opening away matches. Their most recent victory was a hard-fought 2-1 win over Mohammedan SC.
Odisha FC, however, will not make it easy. The Juggernauts are riding a wave of momentum after a resounding 6-0 victory over Hyderabad FC, lifting them to sixth place in the standings with three wins and as many draws. Their recent form has seen them steadily improve after a slow start, and they will look to capitalize on their home advantage.
Odisha FC has proven difficult for Bengaluru FC in recent encounters, remaining unbeaten in their last two meetings, with one win and a draw. Moreover, they have won both of their previous ISL fixtures against the Blues at the Kalinga Stadium.
Bengaluru FC’s formidable frontline, led by former India captain Sunil Chhetri, will be key to their attack. Chhetri’s brace against Mohammedan SC in the last game has injected confidence into the team, as they look to extend their winning run.
Odisha FC’s head coach Sergio Lobera emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum and securing points in their upcoming matches. “The first step is the next game. We have six points at stake in the next couple of matches, and getting those points is crucial for our position in the latter stages of the season,” said Lobera.
Bengaluru FC’s head coach Gerard Zaragoza credited the team’s success to solid summer signings and a well-executed pre-season. “We’ve made good signings that fit our style of play. Our pre-season was really important. We’re not focusing on whether we’re contenders or not, we just want to win each game,” Zaragoza added.
The two teams have faced each other 10 times in ISL history, with Bengaluru FC holding the edge with five wins. Odisha FC has claimed three victories, and two matches have ended in draws. The stage is set for a thrilling contest as both teams seek to extend their strong form.