Bengaluru FC take on SESA Football Academy for a place in the semifinal of the Durand Cup at the Raia Sports Complex, in Goa, on Monday. The team from Goa beat Mohammedan Sporting 1-0 on Saturday to make the battle for a place in the last four a two-horse race in Group C.

Earlier last week, Ashley Westwood’s boys put on a show replete with chances against Mohammedan Sporting and though the Blues ended up 2-1 winners, the gaffer has had plenty of positives to take into Monday’s game.

“I’m pleased with the way the team is shaping up. The boys look sharp and are training well. This is a prestigious Cup that we are part of and are very keen to leave our stamp on it,” said Westwood on the eve of the game.

The Bengaluru FC coaching staff were at the SESA-Mohammedan game and Westwood was impressed with what he saw. “SESA is surely one of the best academies in the country. We watched them play and most of the boys on the team are quick. It should be a good game that we are looking forward to be part of,” said Westwood.

Talking pace, Udanta Singh and CK Vineeth – on as second half substitutes, gave ample proof of what they are capable of on the wings and it will be interesting to see Westwood’s selection for the game.

Skipper Sunil Chhetri, who scored the opening goal against Mohammedan, said the team has been working hard and the number of chances created in the Durand opener was an encouraging sign. “We aren’t dwelling too much on what the score line could have been. Instead, we’ve taken the positives and are confident that we can create those chances again.”