In a nail-biting Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 clash at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan on Wednesday, Sunil Chhetri once again proved his worth as Bengaluru FC (BFC) edged past Mohammedan Sporting Club (MSC) 2-1.
Chhetri’s brilliant performance not only secured three vital points for his side but also set a new milestone as he became the first player to score against 15 different ISL opponents.
The match began with Mohammedan SC showing rare early intensity, a departure from their usual slow starts. The home side capitalized on their momentum in the eighth minute when Cesar Manzoki connected with Mirjalol Kasimov’s corner. The ball took an awkward bounce to find the back of the net, giving MSC an early lead and delighting the home crowd.
For much of the first half, MSC dominated proceedings, with their defenders, led by Frenchman Florent Ogier, effectively nullifying BFC’s attacking threats. Despite Bengaluru pressing hard closer to halftime, Ryan Williams saw two golden chances denied, including a controversial handball appeal against MSC captain Zodingliana Ralte that went unheeded by the referee.
Bengaluru’s fortunes shifted in the second half with the introduction of Sunil Chhetri in the 53rd minute. The veteran forward immediately brought energy to BFC’s attack, but MSC goalkeeper Bhaskar Roy initially stood firm, blocking multiple attempts from both Chhetri and Williams.
However, an ill-timed foul by Manzoki handed BFC a lifeline in the 82nd minute. Chhetri coolly converted the penalty, sending a low shot to the right of Roy to level the score.
The match seemed destined for a draw until the dying moments of injury time. In the 90+9th minute, Chhetri’s expertly timed header, deflected off Ogier, sealed a dramatic victory for Bengaluru FC, silencing the partisan crowd.
With the win, Bengaluru FC remains at the top of the ISL standings with 20 points from nine matches, reaffirming their title credentials. Meanwhile, Mohammedan SC’s struggles continue as they sit at the bottom of the table with just five points from eight games.
For Chhetri and BFC, the victory not only extended their unbeaten run but also highlighted the talismanic striker’s ability to rise to the occasion and deliver when it matters most.
