AFC Cup 2018: "We prepared for this game like a final," says Bengaluru FC head coach Albert Roca
What's the story?
Bengaluru FC registered an impressive 4-0 win over Abhani Dhaka which propelled them to the top of the Group E standings, and a loss inflicted on New Radiant SC ensured that the Indian Super League giants qualified with a top-position finish as part of the AFC Cup 2018.
BFC's head coach Albert Roca was all in praise for his men after the end of the game and stressed the importance of the game by saying, "We prepared for this game like a final. Everyone was very focused while coming here. From the very first minute, I saw my team concentrated".
In case you didn't know
After having finished runners-up in the recently concluded Indian Super League season, Bengaluru FC walked into the AFC Cup 2018 as favourites and have exhibited a dominating display so far, winning five out of six matches with a solitary loss to top the Group E standings.
This will be the second time Bengaluru FC have qualified for the inter-zonal playoffs in two editions, having qualified in the last season after a top-place finish in that season as well.
Heart of the Matter
A goal each from Daniel Segovia and Sunil Chhetri sandwiched by two goals from Nishu Kumar saw BFC finish with a dominating display over Abhani Dhaka to move into the playoffs stage.
"We are a team which is always sure that we want to win, in any competition. It is true that we came from a long season where we had to play initial rounds and now we are in the playoffs," Roca said and added, "It has been a very tough season for us and we have finished with a very good game by qualifying further, we are very happy."
Skipper Sunil Chhetri, who added the final nail in the coffin with the fourth goal of the match was thrilled at the result, said, "We have been a team who works very hard together, right from the beginning of the first season. Who scores or assists is not important, what is important is to create chances."
What's Next?
Buoyed by the qualification into the playoffs, Bengaluru FC with hope to continue its rich vein of form and go all the way to win the spoils in the end.
Author's Take
Following an impressive show in the Indian Super League and a maiden Super Cup championship victory, BFC will have enough confidence to back themselves to win the AFC Cup.