19-Sep-2024 10:16 PM
9356
By BD Narayankar
Bengaluru, Sep 19 (Reporter) In a night to remember at the Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru FC captain Sunil Chhetri delivered a masterclass, scoring twice in the final minutes to secure a commanding 3-0 victory over Hyderabad FC in the ISL 2024-25 season. The Indian football legend, who started the match on the bench, made an unforgettable impact after coming on in the 59th minute.
The game had already seen Bengaluru FC take an early lead, thanks to a fifth-minute goal from skipper Rahul Bheke, who fired home a stunning volley. Despite their dominance, Bengaluru’s slim lead kept the match tense, with Hyderabad FC seeking to equalise. However, it was Chhetri’s late-game brilliance that truly stole the spotlight.
In the 85th minute, the stadium erupted as Chhetri stepped up to take a penalty, coolly converting to double Bengaluru’s lead. His clinical finish didn’t stop there. Deep into injury time, Chhetri added his second goal of the night, a classical diving header in the 94th minute, sealing the victory and sending the Bengaluru fans into delirium.
Chhetri’s performance was emblematic of his leadership and experience, once again proving why he remains one of Indian football’s greatest icons. His two late goals were the perfect conclusion to a game where Bengaluru FC dominated from the outset. By the 32nd minute, they had completed over 200 passes and controlled 72% of the possession, putting Hyderabad on the back foot throughout the match.
Though Hyderabad had moments of promise, with close-range efforts from Devendra Murgaokar and some dangerous set-piece plays, they couldn’t find a way past Bengaluru’s resolute defence. Key interventions by Hyderabad’s Alex Saji helped keep the scoreline respectable, but it was clear that Bengaluru FC were the superior side on the night.
This victory not only adds three crucial points to Bengaluru’s campaign but also highlights the enduring class of Sunil Chhetri. His passion, skill, and determination continue to inspire both his team and football fans across the nation.
As the ISL season unfolds, Bengaluru FC’s commanding performance, led by Chhetri’s brilliance, is sure to send a message to the rest of the league: they are a force to be reckoned with...////...