Gerard Zaragoza laments 'set piece' woes following loss to Odisha FC in ISL

The Blues succumbed to their second loss of the season.

Indian Super League (ISL) club Bengaluru FC suffered a dampening 4-2 defeat at the hands of Odisha FC, as their away form continued to haunt Gerard Zaragoza and his men. The 4-2 loss epitomized a series of tactical and defensive shortcomings that have plagued Bengaluru FC in recent weeks. The game highlighted the purple patch of the high-flying Odisha FC, who have scored ten goals in their last two matches.

Following their win over Bengaluru, the Juggernauts moved up to the third spot in the ISL standings after match week 10.

Another away game, another loss for Gerard Zaragoza

The Blues have some serious things to address regarding their away form in the ISL. Having played five games away from the Sree Kanteerava this season, Zaragoza’s men have won two games, lost two games, and drawn one. It’s important to note that their two wins came against struggling teams like Kerala Blasters FC and Mohammedan SC, while they succumbed to in-form teams like FC Goa and Odisha FC.

While the Blues were lauded for their defensive solidity for conceding no goals in the opening five games, the picture has completely changed since that run. While talking about the dramatic shift, Gerard Zaragoza acknowledged, “This season, I think the first two goals are too easy. We received the last two goals in set-pieces when we received 0 in 8 games. Now we are receiving goals by set-pieces. Then, we lost the game in the first half.”

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Poor start to the game hurt the Blues

The first half was particularly damning for Gerard Zaragoza’s men and ultimately decided the fate of the game. The disconnect within the defensive unit, with lapses in communication and positioning allowed the Juggernauts to run riot and take full advantage.

While talking about the game, Gerard Zaragoza stated, “I think that before the goal, we had chances to score 3-1. After the 3-1, we had chances to score the 2-2. I think that the first time, or the only time, that Odisha arrived in the second half inside the box, another mistake and we received the 4-1 and that killed the game. That’s what I think.”

Sunil Chhetri: The lone bright spot for the Blues

After coming on as a substitute in the 46th minute, Sunil Chhetri was a rare bright spot in an otherwise gloomy night. He made an instant impact for his side, scoring a goal in the 52nd minute and came close on another occasion, hitting the post.

While talking about Chhetri, Gerard Zaragoza stated, “He’s in a very good form. He scored another goal and he had this post. He’s too special and too important for us. I hope to continue seeing him inside the pitch.” Even Odisha FC fans recognized Chhetri’s contributions, giving him a heartfelt tribute after the final whistle.

While it’s only a second loss for the season, the patchy run of form for Zaragoza and his team will be a huge concern. The focus for the club now shifts towards regrouping and rekindling their early season form.

As the games continue to come in thick and fast for the Blues, Bengaluru FC will need to address their defensive frailties, if they are to win a trophy this season.

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