Important for Chhetri to stay calm, motivate players, says Naushad Moosa

The tactician has still not given up on qualifying for the playoffs.

Top four hopefuls Bangaluru FC took a giant step in the right direction with a convincing win against Mumbai City FC in the Indian Super League (ISL). Braces from Cleiton Silva and Sunil Chhetri saw the South Indian side beat the Islanders 4-2. Interim BFC manager, Naushad Moosa addressed the media after his side’s impressive performance.

Cleiton Silva’s early goal

Cleiton Silva struck for BFC in the first minute, putting the former Indian Super League chmpions in the driving seat for the rest of the match. Naushad Moosa confirmed that the goal came as a result of a tactical success from his side.

“Surprised, yes. That is always rare. They were playing high, so the idea was to capitalize on that and go for the counter-attacks.”

On emotion his side showed on pitch

It was a very emotional performance from the Bengaluru players, with the emotion writ plainly for all to see on their faces. The image of Sunil Chhetri embracing the team's Media Officer after scoring is one that will live long in the memory of fans. Moosa spoke about how much the performance meant to his side and indeed to himself.

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“It was very important for the team to know that the only way to win these three games was to play as a team and they showed it.

Playoffs Hopes

Following their defeat to ATK Mohun Bagan, Naushad Moosa insinuated that his side were no longer in the running for a top four finish. However, with the win against MCFC, the Blues find themselves just two points off fourth-placed FC Goa.

“I didn’t say that the hopes are off. I said that the way other teams are getting draws, there are possibilities. We have to stay positive and keep playing the way we played.”

Cleiton Silva’s injury

Despite scoring a brace to give Bengaluru FC a commanding lead in the match, Cleiton Silva was stretchered off the pitch towards the end of the game. Naushad Moosa clarified any doubts regarding the health of his Brazilian attacker.

“No, he was out the last game. He has an injury. So, again he was feeling those pains. That was the only reason. He has those hamstring (issues) also, so we had to be careful and get him out.”

On impact Sunil Chhetri has on and off pitch

In his time at Bengaluru FC, Sunil Chhetri has shown time and time again why he is truly one of the best players to have come out of Indian football in recent years. Moosa waxed lyrical about the impact his captain has on the club and players, both on and off the pitch.

“He is the captain, the leader. The way he motivates all the players. You can see the frustration in him, sometimes when the team is not playing so well. It was very important for him to stay calm, keep motivating the players and it worked.”