Match facts
When: Wednesday, September 14, 2016
Start time: 1600 local
Venue: Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru
Big Picture
For a club that began just three years ago, Bengaluru FC's domestic resume reads as impressive as it possibly could, with a Federation Cup win in 2014-15 sitting well with two I-League titles -- a development that means the club will be unveiling their new home jersey this season, now with two stars as part of their crest.
Their short stint in Asia has been quite impressive too, making their way through to the round of 16 last season, and now going one better after an impressive 3-2 win away against Kitchee of Hong Kong to become the fourth Indian club after East Bengal, Dempo and erstwhile Mahindra United to make the last eight of the AFC Cup.
There's been a managerial change since their I-League win, though, and while Albert Roca's arrival has been met with appreciation for his work with youth development in the past, his credentials in handling the pressure of expectations in continental competition across two legs will be the sternest possible start for his first Indian assignment.
This match will however take place behind closed doors after unrest in the city of Benglauru. Not having crowd support will be a major disadvantage going into this game for Bengaluru FC.
In the spotlight
Not only have there been changes in the manager's position for Bengaluru FC, they have also lost some of their key players from their last season in the transfer window, but one John Johnson has been a constant presence at the heart of the Bengaluru defence since the club's inception. He might take some time to strike up the kind of chemistry he had with Curtis Osano as the centre-backs, but his role would be pivotal in giving BFC enough advantage going into their away leg.
Tampines Rovers have extensive experience of having played Indian opposition - goals from Jordan Webb and Afiq Yunos helped them beat Mohun Bagan after extra time to get to the last eight - but it will be former Republic of Ireland Under-21 striker Billy Mehmet who could prove to be a goalscoring threat for India. Mehmet is also the only player in the Rovers squad to have played for an Indian club, having signed for Dempo back in 2013.
What they said
"It is unfortunate that we will not have our fans. It's a real shame but we need to accept it and put on a good performance.I have spoken to the players, and it won't be an excuse. Everyone wants to play with support but we will try to do our best. It's time for us to make one more step in this competition" - Bengaluru FC coach Albert Roca
Form guide (last five matches, most recent first)
Bengaluru FC WLLLW
Tampines Rovers LLWWW