Bengaluru FC continued their flawless performance in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 by securing a resounding 3-0 home victory over Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Saturday. This triumphant win marks their third consecutive victory, solidifying their position at the top of the table, while MBSG finds themselves in sixth place.
From the opening whistle, Bengaluru FC displayed an aggressive and high-intensity approach, keeping the Mohun Bagan defenders under relentless pressure. Edgar Mendez, Sunil Chhetri, and Venkatesh spearheaded the attack, constantly probing and testing the opposition’s defense. The first significant opportunity for the host team came as early as the fifth minute. Vinith’s precise delivery from a free-kick found Rahul Bheke in the box, but the experienced defender missed the chance to convert it, failing to test MBSG’s goalkeeper Vishal Kaith with his header.
The breakthrough moment arrived in the ninth minute when Bengaluru FC’s persistent efforts were rewarded. A well-executed corner by the hosts saw Nikhil Poojary’s header directed towards Edgar Mendez, who made no mistake in turning it past Kaith, giving Bengaluru FC an early lead. This goal set the tone for the rest of the match, as the Blues continued to dominate proceedings.
The superiority of Bengaluru FC was further emphasized in the 20th minute. Mendez, who was instrumental in the opening goal, once again showcased his playmaking abilities. A darting run down the right flank concluded with a pinpoint cross to Chhetri in the box. The veteran Indian striker smartly flicked the ball into the path of an advancing Suresh Singh, who slotted it home with precision, doubling the lead for the hosts and putting MBSG on the back foot.
Just moments later, a lapse in MBSG’s defense nearly resulted in another goal. Chhetri, demonstrating his keen anticipation, intercepted the ball from Apuia in midfield. However, his ambitious long-range effort was thwarted by Kaith, who remained vigilant between the posts.
Bengaluru FC showed no signs of complacency as they maintained their aggressive stance into the second half.
. The relentless pressure from the hosts paid off again in the 51st minute when Dippendu Biswas fouled Mendez in the penalty area, prompting the referee to award Bengaluru a spot-kick. Chhetri stepped up to take the penalty and confidently dispatched it, not only sealing the victory but also etching his name into the ISL history books as the league’s highest goalscorer with his 64th strike.
Despite trailing by three goals, MBSG did not relent in their pursuit of a comeback. Coach Jose Molina introduced Jamie Maclaren in the 66th minute to add more firepower to the attack. The Mariners created a few notable chances through Aldred and Cummings, but their attempts lacked the potency to trouble Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Bengaluru’s reliable goalkeeper.
In search of a breakthrough, MBSG pushed more bodies forward, which left them vulnerable at the back. Bengaluru FC’s defense remained resolute, adeptly keeping the visitors at bay. A swift counter-attack initiated by Suresh nearly resulted in a fourth goal for the Blues. Suresh’s precise pass found Sivasakthi Narayanan unmarked in the box, but Kaith once again came to MBSG’s rescue with a remarkable save.
Sunil Chhetri’s performance was pivotal not only because of his historic goal but also due to his overall contribution to the team’s success. Besides scoring, he assisted Suresh Singh’s goal and completed 10 out of his 16 attempted passes while creating two goal-scoring opportunities. It was a masterclass from the Indian football legend.
Looking ahead, Bengaluru FC is set to travel for their next fixture against Mumbai City FC on October 2, aiming to extend their unbeaten run. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan Super Giant will seek to regroup and bounce back as they prepare to face Mohammedan Sporting Club in the highly anticipated Kolkata Derby on October 5.
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