ISL 2018-19: ATK 1-2 Bengaluru FC – 5 Talking Points

#2 Superb possessional play from Bengaluru

Spanish coach Carles Cuadrat has infused possession-based football into the playing style of Bengaluru FC well [Image: ISL]

Bengaluru have a Spanish flair in their side. So it may not be surprising to see them playing possessional football on the pitch. Spanish coach Carles Cuadrat has deployed the system very usefully.

Against ATK, Bengaluru tried to keep the possession right from the word go. They have few ball players such as Udanta Singh and Paartalu who can keep the possession. In the match, Bengaluru played a total of 555 passes, out of which 76 percent were successful.

ATK, who mostly relied on crosses and long balls, failed to anticipate Bengaluru’s attack. Each time they got the ball, someone from Bengaluru dispossessed them easily. The British style of play from ATK couldn’t help them against a more composed side like Bengaluru. Chhetri, Paartalu and Delgado were dominating the midfield.

ATK coach Steve Coppell should’ve introduced Cavin Lobo, who controls the ball well and can keep possession for long phases. He can also make a difference on the midfield by creating chances for the strikers. Coppell should consider Lobo for the future matches.