Bengaluru looking for a fresh start against Minerva Punjab FC

The reigning champions have picked up only 1 point from their last 3 games...

Both teams have not had the best weeks in the domestic league and will look for a fresh start in their match at Bengaluru. 

Albert Roca needs to bring back some much needed confidence to the squad after he saw his team lose 3 games on the trot before a fighting 2-2 draw against an impressive DSK Shivajians.

Minerva Punjab, on the other hand, have had more off-field problems than on the pitch. With friction between the owner and technical director threatening to put a dampener on some much-needed confidence after their 2-1 win over Mumbai FC, the northerners will need to get a positive result against the reigning champions in their own backyard. 

Team News

John Johnson continues to serve his suspension. Keegan Perreira and Salam Rajan Singh were used in the draw against DSK and all other players are fit and raring to go. 

Punjab will look to retain the same team that beat Mumbai. Boaringdao Bodo and Anirudh Thapa were instrumental in the victory over Santosh Kashyap's team and will no doubt be in the thick of things as they aim to take advantage of a vulnerable Bengaluru.  

Coach's Corner

Albert Roca (Bengaluru FC) : "We have to ensure we change that tomorrow as it’s just a question of mentality. Even though the results have been unfavourable, the players will go on to the pitch with a positive mentality and do their best"

Head-To-Head

This will be the first meeting between the 2 clubs. 

Man-To-Watch

Bengaluru FC: Sunil Chhetri- The veteran kept a cool head as he registered himself on the scoresheet for the first time this season against DSK. The 32-year old has had a quiet season so far by his usually high standards. Roca will look to his skipper to provide that moment of inspiration to help his struggling side towards a much-needed 3 points. 

Minverva Punjab: Anirudh Thapa - The U-22 midfielder showed composure and vision that belied his age in the win against Mumbai. He and striker Bodo linked up impressively and their pace could be a sign of worry for a Bengaluru defence that has recently been shown to be vulnerable to quick counter attacks.  

Probable Lineups

Bengaluru FC: (4-3-3): Amrinder, Khabra, Salam, Juanan, Nishu Kumar, Watson, Lyngdoh, Rodrigues, Chhetri, Vineeth, Udanta Singh

Miverva Punjab (4-3-3) : Arnab (GK), Shaikh, Germanpreet, Souvik, Arashpreet, Simranjeet, Nurain, Mandeep, Thapa, Amobi, Bodo  

Broadcast

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The game will not be telecast live on Ten Sports but you can follow live commentary of the game on khelnow.com.