ISL 2023-24: Bengaluru FC vs Hyderabad FC: Preview, Predicted lineup, injury news, H2H, telecast details

Bengaluru FC will aim to get back to winning ways in the ISL with a victory over Hyderabad FC.

In a highly anticipated ISL showdown at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Saturday – 24th February, Bengaluru FC will take on Hyderabad FC in a crucial encounter. The Blues are in a challenging phase with just one triumph in their last five games. Meanwhile, the Nizams are in search of their maiden victory, dwelling at the league’s bottom. In their previous encounter, Bengaluru FC and Hyderabad FC battled fiercely, and yielded a 1-1 draw.

A single victory holds the potential to serve as a turning point for both teams. Amidst consecutive defeats, securing a win is more than just a boost in points; it would act as a catalyst for rebuilding confidence and reshaping the narrative of their respective seasons.

The Stakes

Bengaluru FC

As Bengaluru FC navigate a challenging ISL season compared to their previous one, the chance to clinch a victory against Hyderabad FC on their home turf appears promising. Under the guidance of Gerard Zaragoza, the Blues aim to bag the three points at home.

Along with key foreign players like Ryan Williams and Javi Hernandez, the Blues also show the presence of experienced Indian national team members in Sunil Chhetri, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Chinglensana Singh, and Nikhil Poojary. With an experienced squad and the advantage of playing at home, Bengaluru FC will aim to capitalize on these factors to secure a crucial win.

Hyderabad FC

Despite challenges, Hyderabad FC feature a determined young squad that consistently battles until the final whistle. While they have been successful in creating opportunities, the team has struggled to convert them into goals. In addition to their on-field struggles, Hyderabad FC have encountered significant off-field challenges, including the departure of key players.

Notably, two former Hyderabad FC players – Chinglensana Singh and Nikhil Poojary are now a part of Bengaluru’s squad. The absence of Alex Saji, the team’s standout centre-back, and captain Joao Victor further aggravate the challenges for Thangboi Singto’s side. Bengaluru FC, well aware of these vulnerabilities, will aim to capitalize on the situation, making the upcoming match a critical test for both sides.

Injury and Team News

Bengaluru FC will be without the services of Suresh Singh Wangjam, who is suspended, and defender Aleksandar Jovanović, who is sidelined with an injury. With Gerard Zaragoza serving a touchline ban, Bengaluru FC will be led by Renedy Singh.

Hyderabad FC will face further challenges in their upcoming match as Aaren D’Silva continues to be sidelined due to a knee injury. Additionally, key players Joao Victor and Alex Saji will be unavailable, serving suspensions.

Head to Head

Matches played – 10

Hyderabad FC wins – 4

Bengaluru FC wins – 2

Draws – 4

Predicted lineups

Bengaluru FC (4-3-2-1)

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (GK), Nikhil Poojary, Chinglensana Singh, Slavko Damjanovic, Naorem Roshan Singh, Rohit Kumar, Harsh Patre, Halicharan Narzary, Javi Hernandez, Ryan Williams, Sunil Chhetri

Hyderabad FC (4-2-3-1)

Gurmeet Singh (GK), Sajad Parray, Mohammed Rafi, Mark Zothanpuia, Aron Vanlalrinchhana, Lalchhanhima Sailo, Abdul Rabeeh, Makhan Chothe, Abhijeet Pa, Ramhlunchhunga, Joseph Sunny

Players to watch

Javi Hernandez (Bengaluru FC)

Javi Hernandez stands as a formidable force for Bengaluru FC in the ISL. Over 15 matches, he has notched up three goals, created an impressive 23 chances, and exhibited precision with 19 shots, seven of which hit the target.

Mohammed Rafi (Hyderabad FC)

Mohammed Rafi has displayed remarkable defensive skills in the current ISL edition. In seven matches he has made six crucial interceptions, 18 clearances, four timely blocks, and five tackles. Moreover, Rafi’s versatility is highlighted by his ability to contribute offensively, having created three chances for the Nizams.

Did you know?

• Hyderabad FC will be without a foreign player against Bengaluru FC.
• Hyderabad FC’s Mohammed Rafi rose from the ranks of Bengaluru FC.
• Nikhil Poojary and Chinglensana Singh shifted base from Hyderabad FC to Bengaluru FC last month.
• Hyderabad FC are still without a win in the ongoing ISL season.

Telecast

The match between Bengaluru FC and Hyderabad FC will kick off at 7:30 PM IST, at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru, on 24 February, 2024. Live telecast of the fixture will be available on the Sports18 Network (Sports18 1/VH1 Channel). Live streaming of the game will be available on the JioCinema app. Viewers from abroad can use OneFootball to stream the game.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.