RoundGlass Punjab FC vs Bengaluru FC: 3 things we learned | Hero Super Cup 2023
Bengaluru FC defeated I-League champions RoundGlass Punjab FC 2-0 in the Group A fixture of the Hero Super Cup at the EMS Corporation Stadium in Kozhikode on Wednesday, April 13.
After a cagey first half, the Blues upped the ante in the second and looked threatening whenever they received possession. RoundGlass Punjab, meanwhile, were content to let their opponents dominate the ball with a target to hit them on the break.
The Warriors goalkeeper Kiran Limbu made several incredible saves to keep the scores level, but BFC eventually found a way in the 66th minute. Udanta Singh was in the right place at the right time to score an acrobatic header to help his side take the lead.
Bengaluru FC doubled their lead in stoppage time to secure a convincing victory. Javi Hernandez was brought down in the box and the Spanish star stepped up to convert the resulting penalty.
The victory takes the Blues level on points at the top with Sreenidi Deccan. On that note, let's take a look at the three things we learned from today’s game.
#1 Simon Grayson’s substitutions pay dividends for Bengaluru FC
Bengaluru FC struggled to progress the ball into the final third and failed to trouble RoundGlass Punjab in the first half. After a poor first 45 minutes, Grayson turned to his bench and replaced Sivasakthi Narayanan and Parag Shrivas with Roy Krishna and Udanta Singh.
The Blues also shifted from a 3-5-2 formation to a 4-3-3 shape and it made a massive difference to their attack. Udanta’s pace on the right flank posed huge problems and he capped off a brilliant performance with a well-taken goal.
Krishna’s pace also caused mayhem to RoundGlass Punjab’s backline, leaving them disoriented and scrambling. Pablo Perez also came on around the hour mark and assisted Udanta’s goal with a clever flick.
Overall, Grayson’s tactical adjustments proved to be the turning point of the game and shifted the momentum in BFC’s favor.
#2 Juan Mera and Kiran Limbu impress for RoundGlass Punjab FC
RoundGlass Punjab FC stumbled to another defeat and it all but confirmed their exit from the Hero Super Cup. However, head coach Staikos Vergetis will be pleased with his team’s efforts and the performances of a few of his players.
Among them is Spanish attacking midfielder Juan Mera. He orchestrated Punjab’s attack, while his deft touches, tricky feet, and vision to pick out his teammates stood out.
Nepalese goalkeeper Kiran Limbu is another player who impressed against BFC. His stunning reflexes were on display as he pulled off three excellent saves to keep his side in the game.
#3 Group A is finely poised for the final fixture
With the victory, Bengaluru FC are level on points and goal difference (4 points) at the top of Group A alongside Sreenidi Deccan. Kerala Blasters, meanwhile, are third with three points to their name, while RoundGlass Punjab FC are eliminated from the tournament.
Wednesday’s results have certainly set up a blockbuster Sunday when Kerala Blasters and Bengaluru FC square off once again. The enmity between the sides is well known as they are set to brace themselves for what promises to be a thrilling game to decide a spot in the semi-finals.
Sreenidi Deccan will play RoundGlass Punjab ahead of that highly anticipated clash, meaning the Blues and the Blasters will know their fate when they meet. Kerala Blasters will be eliminated if the Deccan Warriors secure three points, while Bengaluru FC will rely on goal difference for a spot in the final four of the Hero Super Cup.