Bengaluru FC retained their place at the top of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 table after a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Mumbai City FC at the Mumbai Football Arena on Wednesday. Both teams had their moments in a closely contested game, but neither could find a breakthrough, leaving the points shared. Bengaluru FC now sits with 10 points from four matches, holding a one-point lead over second-placed Punjab FC.
While the Blues failed to extend their winning streak, they achieved a notable defensive feat by securing their fourth consecutive clean sheet, becoming the first team in ISL history to start a campaign without conceding a goal in the opening four games. Stand-in head coach Renedy Singh kept faith with the same starting XI that delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over Mohun Bagan Super Giant just days earlier, with Sunil Chhetri leading from the front.
Mumbai City FC’s Early Pressure
Mumbai City FC, known as the Islanders, started brightly, putting the Bengaluru defense under pressure in the opening exchanges. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Bengaluru’s star goalkeeper, was tested early as he collected a dangerous cross from Brandon Fernandes and was later called into action to stop a threatening delivery from Vikram Partap Singh.
The Islanders’ most significant early opportunity came in the 12th minute when Greek striker Nikos Karelis rose highest to meet a cross, forcing Gurpreet into a sharp save. Karelis, who has been in solid form for Mumbai, looked lively throughout the half, constantly looking to break through Bengaluru’s sturdy defensive line.
Despite Mumbai’s early dominance, Bengaluru FC held their shape well. The defence of Bengaluru FC were rigid in defense, repelling Mumbai’s crosses and ensuring that any threat from open play was swiftly neutralized.
Bengaluru FC’s Response
As the game progressed, Bengaluru FC began to grow into the contest. The midfield trio of Bengaluru FC worked tirelessly to break up play and launch counter-attacks. Bengaluru’s first real chance came in the 23rd minute when Alberto Noguera played a perfectly weighted through ball to Edgar Mendez. The Spanish forward was through on goal, but his powerful effort was saved by Mumbai’s goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa, who stood tall to deny the opening goal.
Mendez continued to be a lively presence in attack, linking up well with Vinith Venkatesh. Vinith had a chance to give Bengaluru the lead shortly before half-time when a loose ball fell to him at the edge of the box, but his shot flew narrowly wide of the post.
Mumbai City FC’s Set-Piece Threat
In the second half, Mumbai City FC continued to threaten, especially from set-pieces. The Islanders came closest to breaking the deadlock in the 67th minute when Yoell van Nieff delivered a superb whipped free-kick into the penalty area. The ball fell perfectly for Spanish defender Tiri, who directed a powerful header towards goal from point-blank range, only to see it cannon off the crossbar. It was a huge let-off for Bengaluru, as the woodwork kept their clean sheet intact.
Mumbai City FC tried to increase the tempo as the game wore on, with Vikram Singh and Brandon Fernandes trying to create openings down the flanks. However, Bengaluru’s defense remained resolute, with Bheke making several key clearances to keep the Islanders at bay.
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Sivasakthi’s Late Opportunity
Bengaluru FC had their best chance to steal the win in the dying moments of the match. The young striker found himself in space, but his shot from a tight angle went wide of the target, much to the disappointment of the traveling Bengaluru fans.
Despite Sivasakthi’s miss, Bengaluru FC can take plenty of positives from the game. The Blues have shown their ability to grind out results, even when not at their best. With 10 points from four games and no goals conceded, they have laid a solid foundation for the rest of the season.
Gurpreet’s Standout Performance
A key factor in Bengaluru FC’s continued success has been the outstanding form of Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. The experienced goalkeeper, who has been a reliable figure between the posts for the Blues, once again proved his worth with several important saves throughout the game. His ability to organize the defense and command his area was crucial in securing another clean sheet.
Gurpreet’s performance earned him praise from head coach Renedy Singh, who emphasized the importance of keeping things tight at the back. “Gurpreet has been fantastic for us this season. His leadership and calmness under pressure have been crucial, especially in games like this where we’re up against a strong attacking side,” Singh said in the post-match press conference.
Mumbai City FC’s Frustration
For Mumbai City FC, the draw leaves them frustrated, as they remain in third place with eight points from four matches. The Islanders dominated possession for large parts of the game and created more chances but were ultimately unable to find the back of the net. Mumbai Head Coach acknowledged his team’s efforts but admitted that they needed to be more clinical in front of goal.
“We had some good opportunities today, but we couldn’t make them count. It’s disappointing not to get the win, but we’ll take the positives and move forward,” Petr Kratky stated.
Looking Ahead
Bengaluru FC’s next fixture sees them return home to face Punjab FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on October 18. With Punjab just one point behind, it promises to be a crucial encounter at the top of the ISL table. The Blues will be aiming to extend their unbeaten run and maintain their position at the summit of the league.
Meanwhile, Mumbai City FC will look to get back to winning ways when they face Kerala Blasters in their next fixture. The Islanders will need to sharpen their attack if they are to close the gap on the league leaders and reclaim their spot at the top.
With the season still in its early stages, both Bengaluru FC and Mumbai City FC have plenty to play for, but for now, the Blues hold the advantage as they continue to set the pace in the 2024-25 ISL campaign.
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