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Bengaluru FC square off against FC Goa in their final game of the League stage of the 2022-23 Indian Super League at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Thursday. Having sealed their spot in the playoffs, Bengaluru FC will look to continue their winning run against Carlos Peña’s men.
The result on Thursday night would prove to be influential for the Blues, as it will determine their final position in the League table and also provide answers to who they face in the knockouts, including whether Grayson’s side will play their knockout game at the Fortress or away.
“We want to finish in third or fourth place so that we can bring the knockout fixture to Kanteerava. I think every team that qualifies for the playoffs would like to have a home tie as they get the fans and the home support,” Bengaluru FC Head Coach Simon Grayson said, interacting with the media ahead of Thursday’s fixture.
The Blues are on a seven game winning streak, including their previous victory against Mumbai City FC. A brace from Javi Hernandez was the difference when the two sides met in the reverse fixture at the Fatorda Stadium in November.
Grayson, meanwhile, will have Roy Krishna and defender Parag Shrivas available for selection, with the duo having served their suspensions against Mumbai City. Grayson also mentioned that he has his plans set for Thursday’s fixture, with several others also at the risk of suspension. A caution for defender Sandesh Jhingan or Hernandez would see them miss out on the playoff fixture.
“I’m in a delicate position because I’ve got some players at risk of suspension. The most important thing is that whatever team goes out tries to win the game as we want to keep the momentum going. The more players that are playing well and scoring goals, the better it is for the team. We want to go and win a football match and when everyone is available, then it’s tough decisions for me, but I’d rather make those tough decisions than not,” Grayson added.
FC Goa come into the game having suffered back-to-back defeats at the hands of Mumbai City FC and Chennaiyin FC. The Gaurs will bank on the form of winger Noah Sadaoui, who has provided the highest number of goal contributions (17; 9 goals, 8 assists) in the League and Iker Guarrotxena, who is another player the Blues will have their eyes on. The Spaniard has found the net 10 times, and is the Gaurs’ top-scorer this season.
Kick-off between the two sides is scheduled for 7:30pm IST on Thursday, and will be telecast live on the STAR Sports Network, Disney+Hotstar and JioTV.
