Bengaluru FC extended their flawless run in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season with an emphatic 3-0 triumph over Mohun Bagan Super Giant in Matchweek 3. The compelling victory took place at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Saturday, ensuring Bengaluru FC’s top position on the league table with a perfect record of three wins from three matches. Mohun Bagan SG, meanwhile, finds itself at the sixth spot with one victory, one loss, and one draw to its name.
The match was a display of tactical brilliance and relentless pressure by Bengaluru FC, who wasted no time in taking control. The attacking trio of Edgar Mendez, Sunil Chhetri, and Venkatesh kept the Mohun Bagan defenders constantly on the back foot. Early in the game, in the fifth minute, Bengaluru’s attacking intent was clear when Vinith delivered a precise free-kick that found Rahul Bheke in the box. However, Bheke’s headed attempt failed to trouble Mohun Bagan’s goalkeeper Vishal Kaith.
Bengaluru FC’s persistent high-intensity play paid off shortly after, as Edgar Mendez opened the scoring in the ninth minute. The goal was a result of a well-executed corner routine. Nikhil Poojary managed to head the ball into Mendez’s trajectory, allowing the Spaniard to slot it past Kaith, putting the hosts ahead.
The dominance of Bengaluru FC continued, and their second goal came in the 20th minute. Mendez, who had already made his mark on the game, was instrumental again, charging down the right flank before delivering a perfectly weighted cross to Chhetri. The experienced forward executed a deft flick, setting up Suresh Singh, who pounced and powered the ball into the net, doubling the lead for the home side.
The match saw another dramatic moment when Sunil Chhetri intercepted a lackadaisical pass from Apuia in midfield. Seizing the opportunity, Chhetri unleashed a long-range effort, only for Kaith to thwart his attempt, temporarily preventing further damage to Mohun Bagan’s hopes.
Bengaluru FC continued their dominance well into the second half. The third and final goal came courtesy of a penalty, awarded in the 51st minute when Dippendu Biswas fouled Mendez in the box.
. Chhetri stepped up confidently and converted the spot-kick, making history as ISL’s highest goalscorer with his 64th goal.
Despite the uphill battle, Mohun Bagan SG attempted to salvage something from the game. Coach Jose Molina introduced Jamie Maclaren in the 66th minute in a bid to add firepower to the attack. The visitors came close to scoring, notably through attempts by Aldred and Cummings, but their efforts were easily dealt with by Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Bengaluru’s steadfast goalkeeper.
Mohun Bagan’s relentless push for a goal saw them commit more players forward. Nonetheless, Bengaluru’s defense stood resolute, maintaining their composure and structure. On the other end, Bengaluru nearly added a fourth goal when Suresh ignited a counter-attack and fed the ball to an unmarked Sivasakthi Narayanan in the box. Narayanan’s shot, however, was superbly saved by Kaith, preventing further embarrassment for Mohun Bagan SG.
Sunil Chhetri’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. Not only did he net a historic goal, but he also played a crucial role in setting up Suresh Singh’s strike. Chhetri also showed his versatility by completing 10 of his 16 pass attempts and creating two substantial chances during the match.
Looking ahead, Bengaluru FC prepares for their next challenge against Mumbai City FC on October 2. In contrast, Mohun Bagan Super Giant is set to face Mohammedan Sporting Club in the eagerly anticipated Kolkata Derby on October 5, where they will aim to regroup and bounce back.
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