Bengaluru FC vs Mohammedan Sporting: Can Former Champions Avenge Last Season's Defeat?

Bengaluru FC face a crucial test against Mohammedan Sporting in the AIFF Super Cup. The former champions are seeking revenge after Mohammedan was one of only three teams to beat them at home last season. Coach Gerard Zaragoza has promised a more direct attacking approach to overcome defensive lines faster. Both teams are eager to start the tournament strongly with key players emphasizing the importance of early rhythm.

Key Points: Bengaluru FC Face Mohammedan Sporting in AIFF Super Cup Clash

  • Bengaluru FC lost only three home games last season with Mohammedan among victors
  • Coach Zaragoza emphasizes direct football with faster attacking transitions
  • Goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu stresses importance of finding early rhythm
  • Mohammedan Sporting relish challenge against experienced Bengaluru FC side
3 min read

Former champions Bengaluru FC gear up for Mohameddan Sporting test

Bengaluru FC seek revenge against Mohammedan Sporting in AIFF Super Cup after last season's home defeat. Coach Zaragoza promises more direct attacking football approach.

"We want to play more direct football - overcome lines faster and attack the goal with fewer passes - Gerard Zaragoza"

Fatorda, October 30

The second match of the day in the AIFF Super Cup will see former champions Bengaluru FC take on Mohammedan Sporting at the PJN Stadium. For the former, however, it is a matter of getting the result against the side that was a rather difficult opponent for them last season. Bengaluru only lost thrice at home in 2024-25, with Mohammedan being one of the teams that won at the Kanteerava, as per the official website of the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

Fast forward to the PJN in Goa in the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26, Bengaluru FC head coach Gerard Zaragoza would like to see his side get the three points with a more direct approach.

"We want to play more direct football - overcome lines faster and attack the goal with fewer passes," said Zaragoza, as quoted from the official website of AIFF.

"Last season, we were solid defensively, but we needed to create more chances and finish better. That's something we've focused on in pre-season," he noted.

Bengaluru goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu highlighted the importance of getting into the rhythm as soon as possible.

"It feels great to be back in competitive football. We have been training well, and everyone's working hard to get back to their rhythm. The main thing now is to stay fit and keep improving with every session," said Sandhu.

Mohammedan Sporting, on the other hand, are relishing the opportunity to play against a strong side like Bengaluru.

Head coach Mehrajuddin Wadoo said, "We know Bengaluru are a strong team full of experienced professionals, but these are matches you look forward to as a player and as a coach. We'll go out there, play our football, and give everything we have."

"We need to stay disciplined and work hard - that's been our identity all season. The results don't go your way sometimes, but performance is what matters. I've told the players to enjoy the occasion and play with freedom. When they express themselves, they perform at their best," said Wadoo.

Mohammedan defender Sajad Hussain Parray is relishing the opportunity to prove himself against quality opposition.

"We're a young and energetic bunch of players, and we are ready to give it our all. It's a big challenge, but also a big opportunity for us to prove ourselves against a team like Bengaluru FC," said Sajad.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Mohammedan Sporting really impressed me last season. Their win at Kanteerava was no fluke. Young Indian players like Sajad getting these opportunities is great for Indian football development.
A
Arjun K
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu is absolutely right about getting into rhythm early. Super Cup sets the tone for the season. Hope both teams give us an entertaining match! âš½
M
Michael C
Respectfully, Bengaluru FC needs to stop talking about their past glory and focus on current performance. The team has been inconsistent lately. Time to walk the talk.
S
Shreya B
Love the positive attitude from both coaches! Wadoo's approach of letting players express themselves is refreshing. Indian coaches bringing new perspectives to the game.
K
Karthik V
The PJN Stadium in Goa is a beautiful venue for this clash! Wish I could be there to watch this live. Hope the match lives up to the hype. 🤞

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