The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season saw another dramatic encounter between Mohammedan SC and Bengaluru FC at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata. The match ended 2-1 in favor of Bengaluru FC, with Sunil Chhetri emerging as the hero, scoring twice to turn the game around for the visitors. However, while Chhetri’s match-winning performance was the headline, the game was also defined by missed opportunities, resilient tactical adjustments, and a final flourish that left fans on the edge of their seats. Here are the three key takeaways from the match
Sunil Chhetri: The Eternal Game-Changer
Sunil Chhetri once again proved why he is considered one of the greatest footballers India has ever produced. Coming off the bench in the second half, the Bengaluru FC captain immediately scored two crucial goals that secured the comeback win.
The first came in the 82nd minute, when Bengaluru was awarded a penalty after a foul by Cesar Manzoki on Capo inside the box. Chhetri, ever the calm and composed leader, stepped up to take the spot-kick. He sent Mohammedan goalkeeper Bhaskar the wrong way, placing the ball into the bottom left corner, which equalized the score and marked a significant milestone in his career. With that goal, Chhetri became the first player to score against all 15 ISL teams.
Chhetri’s second goal, however, was perhaps the most significant in terms of the match’s outcome. In the game’s dying moments, with the score still level at 1-1, Lalremtluanga Fanai delivered a pinpoint cross from the left. Chhetri, always in the right place at the right time, rose above his defenders and powered a header past Bhaskar to seal the victory. This goal further solidified his status as the league’s ultimate clutch player, capable of delivering when it matters most.
In addition to these milestones, Chhetri also set a new ISL record for the most penalty goals, with 20 to his name. This feat, combined with his leadership on the field and his ability to come through in critical moments, reaffirmed his position as one of the most influential players in the league’s history.
Mohammedan’s Missed Opportunities
For Mohammedan SC, this match was a painful reminder of how small lapses in concentration and missed chances can come back to haunt you. The home side started the game strongly, full of energy and determination. They pressed Bengaluru FC high up the pitch, causing significant disruption to their opponents’ build-up play. This high-pressure approach, led by Cesar Manzoki, Mirjalol Kasimov, and Carlos Franca, created a number of problems for Bengaluru’s defense, who were forced to start the match with an all-Indian backline.
Their efforts paid off early in the eighth minute. Kasimov delivered a perfect corner, and Manzoki rose above the Bengaluru defenders to head the ball home, putting Mohammedan 1-0 up. It was a well-executed set piece, showing the hosts’ tactical sharpness and reward for their early dominance.
However, despite continuing to apply pressure, Mohammedan SC could not capitalize on their chances. They had another golden opportunity to extend their lead early in the second half. A perfectly timed long ball found Manzoki in space, and the forward cleverly laid the ball off to Carlos Franca. The Brazilian, in a prime position to double the lead, saw his shot sail wide of the target, a miss that could prove costly in hindsight.
Then, in the 89th minute, when the score was 1-1, Mohammedan came agonizingly close to retaking the lead. A swift counterattack led by Alexis Gomez and Remsanga saw the latter deliver a perfect cross to Manzoki. Having lost his marker, the forward made a well-timed run to meet the ball with a header. Unfortunately for the hosts, the header struck the post and rolled away, leaving the home crowd in disbelief. Had that chance gone in, it could have been a different story.
These missed opportunities were a turning point in the match. Mohammedan SC’s inability to put the game to bed and take advantage of their superior chances left the door open for Bengaluru FC to make a dramatic comeback. While their defensive structure was commendable for much of the game, their failure to capitalize on critical moments ultimately led to their downfall.
Bengaluru’s Resilience and Tactical Adjustments
Bengaluru FC’s ability to stay composed under pressure and their resilience in the face of adversity were key to their victory. At halftime, the Blues trailed 1-0, struggling to break down the well-organized Mohammedan SC defense. They were in need of a spark, and head coach Gerard Zaragoza provided that by making an important tactical change.
Zaragoza’s decision to bring on Sunil Chhetri in the 53rd minute proved to be a game-changer. His introduction allowed Jorge Pereyra Diaz to move to a wider position, giving Bengaluru more attacking options and width in their play. Chhetri’s arrival added dimension to their offense, and it didn’t take long for him to make an impact. The Blues began to dominate possession and create more chances as the game progressed.
The tactical changes were not just limited to Chhetri’s substitution. Zaragoza also brought on Alexis Gomez instead of Carlos Franca, adding fresh legs to the team’s attacking midfield. Gomez almost had an immediate impact, creating a chance for himself with a strong run down the left flank, but his low shot was denied by Bengaluru goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.
Despite the attacking adjustments, the turning point came through Bengaluru’s never-say-die attitude. Their resilience showed when they stayed patient despite their early struggles. In the match’s final stages, when it seemed like a draw was the most likely outcome, Lalremtluanga Fanai delivered a sublime cross into the box, and Chhetri’s perfectly timed header was enough to seal the win for Bengaluru.
This ability to adjust tactically and respond to the pressure of the game reflects Bengaluru’s mental strength and adaptability. Their performance in this match highlighted their resilience, which will be crucial as they aim for further success in the ISL season.
Looking Ahead
For Bengaluru FC, this victory significantly boosts their confidence, positioning them well for the remainder of the season. The team’s resilience, tactical adaptability, and, of course, the brilliance of Sunil Chhetri provide a strong foundation for the challenges ahead.
For Mohammedan SC, this loss is a painful one. While they played with intent and had their chances, their failure to convert those opportunities into goals and the inability to maintain focus in crucial moments cost them the game. The team will need to regroup and address these issues if they are to stay competitive in the league.
As the ISL 2024-25 season continues to unfold, this match serves as a reminder of the league’s unpredictability and the brilliance of players like Sunil Chhetri, whose ability to deliver in key moments continues to define the landscape of Indian football.
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