Bengaluru, 15 December 2023 – As the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 season progresses, Bengaluru FC and Jamshedpur FC are set to face off in what promises to be a riveting encounter at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on December 16, Saturday. This match marks a new era for Bengaluru FC, with Gerard Zaragoza stepping in as the head coach, returning to a club where he previously contributed to a title-winning campaign.
Bengaluru FC’s Struggle and Hope for Revival:
Bengaluru FC, with just one win in 10 games, is facing a tough season. The team started strong but lost momentum, particularly after the international break. A heavy 4-0 defeat to Mumbai City FC led to a change in management, bringing in Zaragoza for a much-needed revival. The team has shown promise at home, but they need to address their slow starts, having conceded 11 first-half goals this season. A win against Jamshedpur FC could be a turning point, potentially setting a new record for the most consecutive games without defeat against a single club in ISL.
Jamshedpur FC’s Quest for Identity and Success:
Jamshedpur FC, under the guidance of Scott Cooper, is in search of consistent form and identity. Having lost five out of their first nine games, they are desperate for a series of wins to salvage their season. Despite their individual talents, the team has struggled to find collective success. They face the challenge of improving their attack, creativity in midfield, and overall performance levels. A victory against Bengaluru FC could serve as a catalyst for a much-needed resurgence.
Key Players to Watch:
– Sunil Chhetri (Bengaluru FC): The experienced forward, with three goals and two assists this season, is crucial for lifting the team’s morale and performance.
– Daniel Chima Chukwu (Jamshedpur FC):The Nigerian striker’s presence in the box and goal-scoring abilities will be vital for Jamshedpur FC’s offensive strategy.
Head-to-Head Record:
In their 12 encounters, Bengaluru FC has won five times, Jamshedpur FC four, with three matches ending in draws. Jamshedpur FC’s forward play has been notable, with a high percentage of forward passes, suggesting an attacking approach.
Team Talk:
Gerard Zaragoza expressed his joy and commitment to bringing Bengaluru FC back to its peak. Scott Cooper emphasized Jamshedpur FC’s philosophy of proactive, pressing football, despite the challenges faced by his young team.
ISL Fantasy Picks:
– Sunil Chhetri (Bengaluru FC) – 7.8cr
– Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (Bengaluru FC) – 4.5cr
– PC Laldinpuia (Jamshedpur FC) – 3.6cr
Where to Watch:
The match will be available in multiple languages across various channels and platforms, including Sports18 Khel, Sports18 1 SD & HD, and through FSDL’s partnership with OneFootball.