Bengaluru FC goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu believes Odisha FC are not an unpredictable opponent

The Keeper also underlines importance of staying alert of Odisha’s attacking strength.

A crucial fixture awaits the Indian Super League (ISL) as Bengaluru FC travel to face Odisha FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on 04th May 2026 with both sides entering the game under very different circumstances.

While Bengaluru FC look to build consistency and strengthen their position in the top half, Odisha FC are searching for answers in what has been a difficult campaign.

Bengaluru FC currently sit sixth in the Indian Super League table, having accumulated 16 points from their matches, with a record of four wins, four draws, and two defeats this season.

Their campaign has been defined by phases of strong performances, but inconsistency in key moments have prevented them from moving further up in the standings

In an attempt to address that, the club made a managerial change, replacing Renedy Singh with Pep Muñoz, aiming to bring greater structure and control to their performances.

Ahead of the fixture, goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu spoke to the media in the pre-match press conference, addressing the team’s approach, recent performances, and the challenge posed by Odisha FC.

On the managerial change mid-season

As an effort to address the inconsistency, Bengaluru FC made a managerial change during the season, replacing Renedy Singh with Pep Muñoz. Talking about that Gurpreet Singh Sandhu said that experienced players find it not very difficult to adapt to new coaches

“For experienced players like me, it’s not difficult to adapt to a new playing style under a new coach, as opposed to someone who is just starting. Personally, I like this style because it’s more enjoyable and challenging, and at the end of the day, you don’t just play for results but also want to play good football.”

“We are aware that the people in Bengaluru love watching attacking style football and football that is played with structure. It’s not only about short passes but about understanding the game, what is required at what point during the match, and having the tools to play this type of football.” The keeper added

Thoughts on facing Odisha FC

When asked about the upcoming fixture against Odisha FC, he emphasised the importance of being prepared for their strengths.

“I don’t think they (Odisha FC) are an unpredictable side. They have their tools to harm opponents, and we have done our homework on that. As a goalkeeper, I need to make sure that when we have the ball, we need to be aware of their (Odisha FC) offensive threats and, at the same time, be available to help the team in any way possible through communication.”

Thoughts on the preparation for the final phase of the league

When asked about the final phase of the league, the custodian spoke about the importance of staying focused and taking each game as it comes.

“Knowing that we have only three games left in the season to achieve our results, at the moment we’re only focused on tomorrow, like how we always have been. I feel it’s very important not to get carried away by looking at the remaining games of the season, and having a one-game-at-a-time approach is vital, as it will help us down the line.” He concluded.

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