Bengaluru FC head coach Gerard Zaragoza was delighted after their convincing 3-0 win against Hyderabad FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru in their second match of the Indian Super League 2024-25 on Thursday.
The Blues have got off to a perfect start in the season as they have won both of their matches. Rahul Bheke scored for the hosts in the fifth minute of the game to put his team in front.
Subsequently, Bengaluru FC veteran Sunil Chhetri scored from the spot kick in the 85th minute. The Blues captain scored his second of the evening in the stoppage time to put the game to bed. Zaragoza said this is what he expects from Sunil Chhetri in the 11th season of the ISL.
“Another win, three more points, and a clean sheet. We need to be happy because, at least for today, we’re at the top of the table,” Zaragoza stated in the post-match press conference.
“Hyderabad FC played a really good game. Last season, they came here as well, and they had zero pressure. Under Thangboi Singto, these boys are doing a great job. A lot of teams are going to struggle against them, just like last season,” the Spaniard opined.
Meanwhile, Aleksander Jovanovic added strength to the team’s defense and Zaragoza added it is crucial for the team to have proper bench strength.
“It’s 100% important to have a bench that can change the game. As a coach, it’s perfect. The game lasts 90 minutes, and we need players who can play 90 minutes as well as players who can come off the bench and make an impact,” Zaragoza stated.
The Spaniard showered praise on Sunil Chhetri for his drive and passion to keep going at the top level.
“He wants to win all and he wants to play every minute. He pushes me a lot to put him on the pitch, both in training and in games. But as you saw (today), he had 30 minutes and scored two goals. This is Sunil Chhetri, and this is what I expect from him this season — to be the top Indian scorer again,” the head coach said.
Bengaluru FC will next take on previous season’s League Shield champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru on 28th September.
