Kolkata April 15: In the title race of the ongoing Indian Super League, East Bengal FC are set to play their eighth fixture against Bengaluru FC, who are breathing down their neck in the points table. Having played one match more, the Blues sit fifth with the same 14 points as the Red and Gold. Tomorrow, at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, East Bengal will host this crucial fixture from 7:30 PM.

At a stage where every point and every goal is crucial, Bengaluru FC come into this game after losing their previous fixture to Kerala Blasters, who registered their first win. They had also conceded a red card in that match, but after an appeal, the AIFF Disciplinary Committee downgraded Braian Sanchez’s red card to a yellow, making him available for tomorrow. Although Oscar has downplayed it as a factor, it remains challenging to include him in the plans within just 24 hours, especially as the Red and Gold have been training for several days with minding there opponent has a crucial player out.

The Red and Gold will look to focus on their own game rather than worry about difference-makers like Sunil Chhetri or any card-related issues. Currently in a comfortable fourth position, having played one match fewer than the teams upper them, East Bengal sit on 14 points and have scored the most goals (14) compared to others.

However, injury concerns remain. Mahesh Naorem, who picked up an injury in the last match against Chennaiyin FC, has been ruled out for the rest of the season. Additionally, in the matchday minus one training session, Rashid and Rakip were on the sidelines and are most likely unavailable for tomorrow.

Oscar is very confident about the match. He believes East Bengal can win and strengthen their position at the top of the table. At the same time, he is keeping the team grounded by focusing on a game-by-game approach, without thinking too far ahead. His main focus has been on improving teamwork, how players move together, understand each other, and stay flexible in their formation. He also stressed the importance of studying the opponent’s strengths, and the current status of East Bengal FC reflects that .

Oscar showed trust in his squad, mentioning players like Miguel, Youssef, Edmond, and Saul as potential difference-makers, not minding about the opponent, he acknowledged that Chhetri is a dangerous and experienced leader who can change the game in a single moment. However, Oscar made it clear that his main focus is his own team. He believes that if his players perform well, East Bengal will have a strong chance to win.

Oscar Bruzon kept his message clear and grounded despite the growing excitement around the title race. With six games still to play, he stressed that there can be no talk of the trophy without taking it one match at a time. For him, every remaining fixture is a final, and only consistent results can keep their ambitions alive.

Focusing on the upcoming fixture Oscar acknowledged the challenge ahead, with a tough run of fixtures against top sides like Mumbai City FC, Punjab FC, and Mohun Bagan Super Giant. Yet, he sees it not just as a test, but as a perfect opportunity for East Bengal to prove themselves and leave their mark in the title race.

Matches will be live on Sony Liv, Streaming on Fancode.