Bengaluru FC Set for ISL Opener Against East Bengal

Bengaluru FC head coach Gerard Zaragoza calls on local support as his team gears up to face East Bengal in their Indian Super League opener at Sree Kanteerava Stadium. The Blues have made several key signings, looking to start the season positively after their Durand Cup semifinals exit.

Bengaluru FC head coach Gerard Zaragoza has issued a rallying cry to the city as his team prepares to kick off their Indian Super League campaign against East Bengal FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Saturday. Zaragoza stressed the importance of local support, particularly following a string of summer signings aimed at strengthening the squad.

'We're up against East Bengal, a team with quality players, but now is the time for this city to come and support us,' said Zaragoza. 'During the summer, the owners, Darren (Caldeira, BFC Director of Football), and I worked hard to bring in the kind of players our supporters wanted. I'm looking forward to seeing a packed stadium,' he added.

The Blues will rely on the attacking prowess of summer signings Jorge Pereyra Diaz and Edgar Mendez, along with the defensive versatility of Rahul Bheke. East Bengal, on the other hand, have bolstered their squad with the likes of French attacking midfielder Madih Talal, midfielder Jeakson Singh, and striker Dimitrios Diamantakos. Kick-off is set for 7.30 pm IST, with live coverage on JioCinema and Sports18.

(With inputs from agencies.)