Pune FC will host Bharat FC in the historic first-ever Pune Derby at the Shree Shivchhatrapati Sports Complex in Balewadi on Saturday.
Speaking at the pre-match Press Conference, Pune FC Coach Karim Bencherifa spoke about the game, his squad, the first ever clash between the two teams and the Derby itself.
Coach Bencherifa began by explaining the importance of a derby game and said, “Every Derby is important with the hype that surrounds it. And it is very important for the team as well as it is for the fans of both the clubs. I think it will be an important game for both the teams as well as the fans who would want to see this Pune Derby. It is also important to note that there is history in the making, given the fact that this is the first time that there are two teams from Pune that will be competing against each other. Both are very professional. So the significance of the game is huge and as a team, we want to play good football. Yes, it is an exciting game, but we do not wish to get carried away. We will play our best and will go in for a win. And as far as what is at stake goes, a very important three points is up for grabs, which will help us put ourselves in a commanding position in the league. That is the first target for me as a coach.”
Comparing the Pune Derby with other similar games, he added, “I am sure that this game too has the potential to become something as big and exciting. In terms of the Derby both teams are from Pune and there will be an added significance of playing Bharat FC for the first time. Of course we have to play good football and have a good game. Also off the field each team is trying to garner in the support and get their fans to root for them and I think it important to note that this is the real derby of Pune as a city.”
Speaking about the team’s form ahead of the game, Coach Bencherifa said, “We had a very challenging month with the injuries and the suspensions and the national team camps. We played the last couple of games with a severe hampering as far as team selection goes. I have six players attacking up front, and of which only one was available. So it was tough. If I had a choice, I would have loved to face Bharat FC a month ago when we were in terrific form and had our full squad with us. We were in better shape and condition, everyone was high on confidence and were playing very well. But we are always ready for challenges. This game and the job is all about challenges. That is where the joy of the game comes in. There are adversities and there are difficult games like these. We have to rise to such challenges and play our game to bring out our very best on the football pitch.”
