Gerard Zaragoza revealed three key learnings from Bengaluru FC's draw against NorthEast United

The Blues remain unbeaten at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium this season.

Indian Super League (ISL) club Bengaluru FC’s recent 2-2 draw with NorthEast United FC provided a mix of highs and lows, for their Spanish head coach Gerard Zaragoza. While Zaragoza’s men have put on their best-attacking form this season, defensive lapses have kept Bengaluru from securing all three points in their last two games.

While the Blues remain atop the ISL standings after eight games, the club will be keen to work out any remaining issues quickly. The game against the Highlanders highlighted that the league leaders have some vulnerabilities.

During the post-match press conference, Gerard Zaragoza his thoughts about his team’s performance. Here are three key lessons Zaragoza and his men will be taking away from this intense match:

Gerard Zaragoza happy with Bengaluru’s ‘best game in attack’

The 39-year-old felt this match was a standout in terms of Bengaluru FC’s attacking performance. The attackers pushed hard, creating chances and pressing the opposition relentlessly ensuring the Blues rescue a point. While talking about the team’s performance, Gerard Zaragoza stated, “I can say that my players try everything, try and fight for everything.

“In reality, I think that we did our best game in attack. Our best game in attack. But to win the game after receiving two goals is difficult. I think we started well the game and that’s what I’m thinking.”

Gerard Zaragoza will be hoping that the team continues this attacking burst with consistency. While the strong showing up front is encouraging, Bengaluru couldn’t capitalize on all their chances to win the game. The Spanish head coach will need to emphasize not just the creation of opportunities but also clinical finishing to convert good performances into more wins as the season progresses.

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The Blues’ defensive lapses are proving costly

While Zaragoza’s men impressed on the attacking side of the ball, defensive lapses and mistakes cost them three points. The Highlanders capitalized on two costly turnovers and countered perfectly with pace, leaving Zaragoza fuming. To stay competitive at the top of the table, Zaragoza will need to tighten the defensive structure and ensure better communication among the backline.

While talking about his team’s defensive errors, Gerard Zaragoza stated, “I was not happy, I was not happy because finally, we leave all these things because of all these mistakes. Now we are in a moment where it seems that we played well but not arrived well.” While the Blues need to instill defensive discipline and reduce errors, and player injuries Nikhil Poojary emphasizes the need for united strong performances in the coming games.

Gerard Zaragoza hails the Sree Kanteerava atmosphere

A huge reason according to Zaragoza for the fightback will be the unwavering home support at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium. The local support created an electrifying atmosphere chanting their hearts out, and continued to make it challenging for opposing teams to settle into the game.

While recognizing their importance, Gerard Zaragoza noted, “I mean, first of all, Kanteerava, fans at the Sree Kanteerava helped us a lot. The people, the people who stayed here are amazing. And it’s difficult for the other teams to win over here.”

The home advantage for the Blues can be a huge game-changer for them as the season progresses. Gerard Zaragoza and his men will be hoping to continue to use the Kanteerava crowd to their benefit, as they look to get back to their best. A strong home record is essential for building momentum and confidence, especially when every point matters.

While the 2-2 draw leaves the Spaniard with some concerns, he will be keen to take home the positives. Striking that balance between attacking flair and defensive stability will be high on the club’s to-do list ahead of a very important run of upcoming games.

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