Bengaluru FC vs FC Goa Live: Follow ISL 2024-25 Semifinal 1 Leg 1 Live Updates

Indian Super League (ISL) club Bengaluru FC will be kicking off their semi-finals campaign against the second-placed FC Goa at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru on Wednesday. The game will be a battle of two teams who have had contrasting fortunes in winning ISL silverware in the past, setting up a fascinating encounter.

The regular season witnessed the Gaurs come out on top and play out a draw against the Blues in their two head-to-head games. However, the upcoming fixture could prove to be a fascinating contest between two sides preparing themselves to push each other all the way to the ISL final.

The Stakes

Bengaluru FC

Under Gerard Zaragoza, Bengaluru FC finished third in the ISL standings following the end of the regular season. With four wins from their last six games, the Blues’ campaign was relatively successful with their latest 5-0 win emphasizing their maturity from a horrific 2023-24 ISL season. Their recent win at home over Mumbai City FC showcased a team that appears ready for the upcoming challenge against Manolo Marquez and his FC Goa squad.

Having already secured victories in challenging venues this season like Kochi, Kolkata, and Shillong, Bengaluru will hope they can summon the support of the West Block Blues against Goa. A win will be essential for the Blues as they look to take a lead ahead of the second leg against the Gaurs at the Fatorda Stadium.

FC Goa

The Gaurs under Manolo Marquez managed a second-place finish in the league stages of the ISL. While they have failed to finish over the Mariners, they will be keen to move to the ISL finals this season. Manolo Marquez will be hoping that his men can once again replicate the same form against the Blues.

Marquez will need his FC Goa players to be at their sturdiest defensively to keep Bengaluru at bay, and also be innovative in terms of breaking the game for their attackers. FC Goa’s players can receive a huge boost in self-belief with another win over the Blues away from home, but a loss can also derail their momentum ahead of the crucial second leg game.

ALSO READ: ISL 2024-25: Semifinals fixtures and venues for knockouts decided

Team & Injury News

The Blues are expected to have a fully fit and available side for the upcoming game.

The Gaurs might be missing out on striker Iker Guarrotxena who picked up a knee injury recently. He will be a game-time decision for the visitors.

Head-to-Head Record

Total Matches – 19

Bengaluru FC wins – 7

FC Goa wins – 6

Draws – 6

Predicted Lineups

Bengaluru FC (4-3-3)

Gurpreet Sandhu (GK); Namgyal Bhutia, Rahul Bheke, Chinglensana, Roshan Singh; Alberto Noguera, Pedro Capo, Suresh Wangjam; Ryan Williams, Edgar Mendez, Sunil Chhetri

FC Goa (4-2-3-1)

Hritik Tiwari (GK), Seriton Fernandes, Odei Onaindia, Sandesh Jhingan, Aakash Sangwan, Ajay Chhetri, Carl McHugh, Boris Singh, Iker Guarrotxena, Dejan Dražić, Armando Sadiku

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