Ivan Vukomanovic: Bengaluru FC have individual qualities that can make difference

The Yellow Army hope to continue their winning streak by beating the Blues.

The upcoming match between Kerala Blasters and Bengaluru FC is sure to be thrilling, as both teams are strong contenders for a spot in the playoffs this season. Last year’s finalists are on a four-match winning run and could secure a fifth successive win. Kerala Blasters, led by their head coach Ivan Vukomanovic, will be looking to continue their impressive form and secure a crucial victory at home.

The tactician of the Yellow Army was in conversation with the reporters recently in the pre-match press conference.

Here are the excerpts from the conversation:

Interesting prospect

Talking about the upcoming contest, Ivan Vukomanovic said that the match will be interesting considering the stakes on the line. He stated, “We know it is a very important game for everyone in Kerala. Like you just said, it’s the Southern derby, it has this kind of spicy thing in it. We as a team will like to play these kinds of games. When you have the mind of a football player, you want to compete. You prefer to play these kinds of games every weekend.”

A word on the safety of travelling fans

There was a recent incident where travelling fans got into trouble during their trip to Kochi. Expressing his concern and sharing his opinion on the topic, the tactician said, “I am very sorry if there were any unpredictable things or ugly things but there are emotions. I hope that everybody was safe. For tomorrow’s game and any other game, I hope that all the fans behave well and everybody will be okay. Let everybody support their team. Of course, we are playing at home, we like to play in front of our fans, we like to give everything for them and we are so pleased to see the yellow sea all around.”

Difference between the ISL and the I-League

Responding to a query regarding the lack of game-time for young prospects, particularly those who joined from the I-League, the head coach said they need to adapt to new challenges and wait for their chance to shine.

“There is a difference between ISL and I-League. If we speak about talented players from the I-League making their step, they realise it is another big step in their career and there is a period of adaptation,” he said.

“You have to adapt to a new group, to the level of ISL, to the level of intensity of training sessions and then you have to take your time. Coming to a new environment, you have to accept many new things. I am really happy with all of them,” he further spoke in the context.

No easy game

Despite Bengaluru FC’s poor start to the season, Ivan Vukomanovic is not taking them lightly. Speaking about the Blues, he said, “Our tomorrow’s opponent is one of the best teams in the league. Taking the consideration that they have the most players from the national team. Half of their team is the national team. So, they are a good team.”

“They have the individual qualities that can make difference. For us, in every game we play now, we have to approach with 100%. There are no easy games for us,” he added, suggesting that KBFC must stay focused before every match and deliver high-level performances.