There are no foes when your country's pride is at stake. Bengaluru FC are one step away from being the only Indian team to reach where no Indian team has reached before. Ahead of their big semifinal second leg against Johor Darul Ta'zim at home on Wednesday, Bengaluru FC have not only asked their own fans, but also rival teams to flock the Kanteerava stadium to help them cross the line.
Sunil Chhetri has already said that the game is a watershed moment not just for the club, but for Indian football. Apart from that, Bengaluru FC have sent out letters to Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, Aizawl FC and Shillong Lajong FC urging them to come and support them for a bigger cause - Indian football.
"Much like our chases to the title over the last three years, let's keep this brutally honest. We haven't been the best of friends and we don't intend for that to change," says the letter to Mohun Bagan. "No we aren't asking you to dress up in blue. Your green and maroon esemble works just fine. But make it to the Fortress."
Here is the full letter to Mohun Bagan
"We at Mohun Bagan are overwhelmed to have received your letter and appreciate the phrases which have been essayed on our on-field rivalry" replied Mohun Bagan.
Here is the full reply
Many Indian clubs, including ISL team NorthEast United have united in support of Bengaluru FC's cause.
"I think what @bengalurufc have achieved is fantastic. I wish them the best and hope that they can create history!" ~ #NeloVingada#NEUFC pic.twitter.com/zAiF8rN0WF
- NorthEast United FC (@NEUtdFC) October 18, 2016
I-League 2nd Division club Mohammedan Sporting Club of Calcutta also wished in a statement that said:
"Fully knowing how much important the AFC Cup semifinal match against Johor Darul Ta'zim F.C to you and the entire Indian football fraternity we would like to wish you all the very best. We sincerely hope you come out winner tomorrow and will make the entire country proud."
Bengaluru FC were grateful in their response
This letter is the best thing we have come across all day and we cannot thank you enough for it @MohammedanSC :) https://t.co/kmowXsusfb
- Bengaluru FC (@bengalurufc) October 18, 2016
I-League club Sporting Clube de Goa also joined in
A great man once said "The first 90 minutes are the most important." Go ahead, do this for the Indian Football. All The best @bengalurufc!!! pic.twitter.com/jqeMA2Icp7
- SportingClube de Goa (@sportingoa) October 18, 2016
The best seats in the house have been sold out according to their ticketing partner but if you are in Bengaluru, there is no better place to be on the 19th of October, regardless of the colour of your shirt.