Naushad Moosa expresses concern about Bengaluru FC defence

The Blues tactician also spoke on his team's objectives, now that the playoffs are virtually unreachable for them.

Bengaluru FC will face table-toppers Mumbai City FC in their next Indian Super League 2020/21 fixture. The Blues are mathematically still in the race for the top four positions, but realistically, they need all of the other results to go in their favour. Staying focused on the task at hand and a major one at that, interim manager Naushad Moosa called for his team to remain positive and fight for their supporters against the Islanders.

On Sunday, he interacted with the media in the pre-match press conference and presented his views on various other issues as well.

Preparation ahead of clash

Moosa gave an insight into the mindset of the dressing room and what the preparations are like in the lead up to the fixture. He said, “We've been training the last few games. I see the way they're working and how the results elsewhere are going in everyone's favour. It's important we stay focused. Our defence is a bit of concern, but we're working on that," he said.

“The game against Bagan, we were doing well, staying compact and focused. Once we conceded, we lost a bit of momentum and I could see a bit of frustration. But, it's important for us to finish the game the way we started it. By staying calm and not giving too much space.” he further added in the context of what his team needs to do against MCFC.

A word on opponents

The tactician also expressed his opinions on their next opponents, who are leading the points table and are on course for direct AFC Champions League qualification. He was quoted saying, “Mumbai are a good team and they will want to come out and win this game because they're playing for the AFC Champions League spot. The most important thing is for us to not concede goals.

“We're expecting Mumbai to come all out for this game. They are a top team and have very little to lose in terms of the ISL, because they've qualified for the playoffs. But, in terms of the AFC Champions League spot, they will want that and will come out for the win.” Moosa continued.

Injury Update

The tactician also gave an update on the possible absentees due to injuries/suspensions. He said, “(Rahul) Bheke is still out with a niggle, and Pratik (Chaudhari) is suspended with the fourth yellow card. We're going to try and stay positive through this phase and play the best football we can. We have three games to go”.

Overview of season & plan ahead

With Bengaluru FC staring at missing the ISL playoffs for the first time ever, Naushad Moosa gave his opinions on how the season has panned out and what his team need to do in the final three games. The 49-year-old added, “If you notice the league and how it has panned out, in the first half ATKMB and Mumbai grabbed a lot of points and managed to create a gap. The other teams started to play better football, but the gap was already there.

“For sure, it will be an interesting game and it's one we are approaching with a lot of preparation. We are going to stay positive and look to get a result for our supporters.” he concluded.