Bengaluru FC continues their unbeaten streak in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25, securing a dominant 3-0 victory against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in Matchweek 3 held at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium. With this result, Bengaluru FC sits comfortably at the top of the table, having achieved three wins in as many matches, while Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) languishes in sixth place with a mixed record of one win, one loss, and one draw.
The encounter saw Bengaluru displaying a high-octane start, keeping the visitors’ defenders under relentless pressure from the get-go. The first scoring opportunity arrived in the fifth minute when Vinith’s expertly delivered free-kick found Rahul Bheke in the penalty area, but Bheke’s header unfortunately went wide.
The early pressure paid off for the hosts as they broke the deadlock in the ninth minute. A meticulously planned corner kick found its way to Nikhil Poojary, who smartly headed the ball into the path of Edgar Mendez. The Spaniard calmly slotted it past Vishal Kaith, giving Bengaluru FC an early lead and igniting the home crowd.
Bengaluru’s second goal came just 11 minutes later. Mendez once again played a pivotal role, darting down the right flank before sending a well-weighted cross into the box. Sunil Chhetri, with his vast experience, cleverly flicked the ball into the path of a charging Suresh Singh, who made no mistake in finishing the move. The 20th minute goal doubled the lead for the hosts and put MBSG on the back foot.
The first half saw another close opportunity when Chhetri capitalized on a defensive lapse to steal the ball from Apuia in the midfield. Chhetri attempted a long-range effort, but Vishal Kaith was equal to the task, making an impressive save to keep the scoreline at 2-0.
Bengaluru FC continued to dominate proceedings in the second half, showing no signs of letting up. Their persistence bore fruit in the 51st minute when Dippendu Biswas fouled Mendez inside the penalty box, leading to a spot-kick.
. Bengaluru’s talisman Sunil Chhetri stepped up confidently and netted his 64th ISL goal, cementing his status as the league’s highest goalscorer.
The Mariners desperately sought an opening to mount a comeback, introducing Jamie Maclaren in the 66th minute to add some firepower. Despite their efforts, including near misses from Aldred and Cummings, they failed to find a way past Bengaluru’s resolute goalkeeper, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.
MBSG pushed bodies forward in a desperate search for a goal, but Bengaluru FC’s defense stood firm. In the dying moments, Suresh Singh orchestrated a swift counter-attack, finding a well-positioned Sivasakthi Narayanan in the box. However, Kaith once again came to his side’s rescue, making another crucial save.
Sunil Chhetri’s influence on this match cannot be overstated. The veteran forward not only set up Suresh Singh’s goal but also delivered the final blow from the penalty spot. His all-round performance was highlighted by his effective passing—completing 10 out of 16 attempts—and creating two clear chances.
Following this stellar performance, Bengaluru FC will gear up for their next challenge as they travel to face Mumbai City FC on October 2. Mohun Bagan Super Giant, on the other hand, will aim to regroup as they prepare to face Mohammedan Sporting Club in the eagerly awaited Kolkata Derby on October 5.
This analytical outlook encompasses the match’s strategic nuances and key performances while reiterating its overall summary: a dominant display by Bengaluru FC, guided by the seasoned expertise of Sunil Chhetri, secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Mohun Bagan Super Giant.
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