We’re up to the task: Albert Roca

Some 90-plus minutes away from scripting a golden chapter in Indian football, Bengaluru FC head coach Albert Roca stressed the only way to achieve success is to come up with a balanced performance and not get succumb to the pressure of the occasion.

On the eve of the AFC Cup final against Air Force Club, Roca, whose side has shown strong defensive performances, said: “It’s not only about defending well, we need a good balance in the performance as transitions should be quick between the attacking and defending units. There’s no pressure (on us). All the games I’ve been in charge here have been important games and I can say that these players are up for the task and they’re ready to go.”

“It’s an important game but at the end of it, it’s just another game. As professionals, the players know that we have a tough team up against us. The most important thing is to be as prepared as possible,” he added.

Manager backing for Ralte With first choice goalkeeper Amrinder Singh suspended for the crunch tie, Lalthuammawia Ralte is set to make his first appearance for the club since donning the gloves in their 5-3 win over Ayeyawady United, way back in March.

Despite his long absence from the first team, Roca put his weight behind the shot-stopper to make an impact in the final.

“Ralte is a very good goalkeeper. In his first season here, he had some fantastic individual performances that gave the club some important victories and points. He’s always been pushing Amrinder for a place in the starting XI and now he’s finally got his chance and I know he’ll be looking to make it count,” stated the Spaniard.

We’re prepared, says Jassim Meanwhile, Air Force Club assistant coach Mehdi Jassim, revealed that the Iraqi side is ready to tackle the challenges posed by Bengaluru FC.

“The Bengaluru team is very good. If they have reached the final, they should be good. We saw, against Johor, they played very well. They have players with good technique, dribbling skills and who are good with the head too,” remarked the coach.

“But my team is ready. We have come here two days before. We have seen their matches and we are well prepared,” he added.