ISL 2017, Match 4: Bengaluru FC vs Mumbai City FC, 5 talking points

Bengaluru FC began their ISL campaign with a well deserved 2-0 win over Mumbai City FC. Edu Garcia's left-footed stinger in the second half was followed by a cool finish from captain Sunil Chhetri in stoppage time. The hosts created the better chances on the night while Mumbai failed to create too many openings.

Here are the major talking points from the match.

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#1 Mumbai extremely aggressive in their approach

More often than not, a team sets up in a way that reflects the coach's personality. Mumbai City FC coach, Alexandre Guimarães is an extremely calm and wise human being. Rarely does he lose his cool or lash out on the touchline.

Which is why it was rather surprising to see his players extremely aggressive with their tackles. The likes of Gerson, Ruidas and Rozarios laid into Bengaluru's attackers with no remorse. Mumbai were intent on making a statement and it was visible in their approach.

Their players never pulled out from a tackle and went all the way, giving no thought to the consequences. At times, studs raised high up in the air.

#2 Leo Costa limps off in opening minutes

Costa's injury cost Mumbai. (Image: ISL)

There are some players who are simply irreplaceable and Leo Costa happens to be one of them for Mumbai City FC. The midfielder ensures stability and composure in the middle of the park. He makes the players around him look good.

Which is why it was devastating to watch him limp off inside the first twenty minutes of the match. The Brazilian suffered a hamstring injury and was immediately taken off. Usually, it takes at least 1-2 weeks before a player recovers from this kind of injury.

There were concerns about his hamstring in the lead up to the tournament. He was probably rushed back in and unfortunately paid the price for doing so.

#3 Will the real Udanta Singh please stand up?

Udanta was a major disappointment. (Image: ISL)

Bengaluru's captain, Sunil Chhetri has never been shy in showering praise on Udanta Singh. Time and again, Chhetri has openly talked about the promise he sees in the 21-year-old. However tonight, Udanta once again was guilty of being wasteful in the final third of the pitch.

This wasn't the first time we've seen Udanta struggling to make the right decision when he finds himself in dangerous areas. Against Mumbai, Singh had a handful of clear-cut chances to deliver a knock out pass from the right wing. He used his pace extremely well to get into dangerous positions. However, he failed to deliver the stinging pass in the end.

Bengaluru have a gem in their hands who needs a bit more polishing.

#4 Amrinder Singh's distribution skills off the mark

Amrinder's distribution skills left for a lot to be desired. (Image: ISL)

One of the basic yet underrated skills a goalkeeper must possess - the goal kick. Mumbai City FC paid an eight-figure salary to acquire Amrinder Singh's services, showing their belief in the talented shot-stopper.

However, a lot was left to be desired from Amrinder's distribution skills. Almost every single time Singh took a goal kick, he ended up conceding possession to Bengaluru FC. His kicks were wayward and he didn't seem to target any of his teammates in particular. They often found the head of an opposition player. It gave Bengaluru the chance to spring a surprise when Mumbai's defenders were just about taking up their positions.

#5 Bengaluru's cohesiveness gives them added advantage

Team chemistry is a major advantage for BFC. (Image: ISL)

As much as it may have been harped upon, the fact is athletes who have played together continuously for a period of time know the kind of runs their teammates will make. Bengaluru's first match was a prime example of that.

Edu Garcia's opening goal was the outcome of a well-rehearsed corner kick. Getting it right during practice sessions and replicating it in a match situation takes a heck of an effort. Mumbai were caught napping and Bengaluru made the most of it. The home side got into their groove in the second half and looked dangerous against a Mumbai outfit renowned to be miserly in defence.