ISL 2018-19: Bengaluru FC vs Pune City: Preview and predictions
As table-toppers Bengaluru take on the second-last team on the league table, Pune, they will surely look forward to continuing their unbeaten streak in the Indian Super League. Bengaluru have played the least number of matches, seven, but still have 19 points, with six wins and one draw. Pune, however, have played nine, winning just one, while drawing two and losing six. Here's more.
How are the two teams shaping up for the encounter
Bengaluru is most likely to field a 4-2-3-1 formation with Sunil Chhetri as the lone striker. They have no injury problems, and thus it is more likely that things might get too difficult for Pune to handle. Pune are also likely to field a similar formation, but their attacking trio of Marcelinho, Diego Carlos and Iain Hume must perform to procure a better result than usual.
Key players from the two sides
Sunil Chhetri is undoubtedly the most prolific goalscorer among the 22 players who will be in action tonight, and is the third-highest goalscorer this term, with five strikes in seven matches. He has also scored six goals against Pune in as many fixtures. Marcelinho and Diego Carlos are the two most reliable players for Pune when it comes to attacking, but their defense does remain a concern.
Probable line-ups and TV listing
Bengaluru FC: Sandhu; Bheke, Serran, Juanan, Nishu; Khabra, Paartalu; Udanta, Dimas, Xisco: Chhetri. Pune City FC: Kamaljit, Mehta, Mills, Singh, Panwar; Adil, Vila; Robin, Marcelinho, Kuruniyan; Hume. The match is scheduled to kick-off at 7:30 PM, and can be watched on the Star Sports network or live-streamed on Hotstar.
Match prediction: Who will win the fixture?
Logically speaking, Pune will most likely have a very tough time preventing a loss once again, and what they should do is solidify their defensive work from the very first whistle. Bengaluru will be raring to take an early lead and pile pressure on their opponents. This being Bengaluru's home match, chances are they will be winning with a scoreline of 3-1 at least.
