#5 Roca’s tactics pay off, but he risks losing out if the home leg is similar
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Bengaluru FC began the game excellenty, as a high press meant Johor had little time on the ball, and Sunil Chhetri and CK Vineeth had a couple of chances in the opening few minutes. However, the Blues strangely sat off their opponents after the 15th minute, allowing Johor time and space in midfield to exert their dominance, with only Amrinder standing in the way.
Roca changed things up in the second half, employing a 3-5-2 formation as Bengaluru FC looked much more compact. However, BFC did invite a ton of pressure, and could thank the water-logged pitch for playing into their hands as Johor struggled with their fluency.
While a precious away goal will mean that even a 0-0 at the Kanteerava will ensure BFC make a shock appearance in the AFC Cup final, Roca must stay away from the temptation to play defensively – Johor will be much better on October 19th and simply inviting pressure will not benefit a Bengaluru side still coming to terms with his tactics.
Either way, Roca will be extremely pleased that Bengaluru FC are 90 minutes away from making history.
