Bengaluru FC Secures Record Fourth Indian Super League Final Berth with Last-Gasp Goal
In a thrilling semifinal clash, Sunil Chhetri’s 92nd-minute winner helped Bengaluru FC book a record fourth Indian Super League final appearance, edging out FC Goa 3-2 on aggregate despite a 2-1 loss in the second leg at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
The Blues’ 2-0 victory in the first leg acted as a safety net, allowing them to absorb FC Goa’s early pressure in the second leg. FC Goa began the match with intent, with Boris Singh’s long-range effort in the seventh minute failing to trouble Bengaluru’s goalkeeper. The visitors continued to push forward, with Udanta Singh supplying a precise pass to Iker Guarrotxena, who fired high and wide.
FC Goa’s positive approach finally paid off in the 49th minute when Borja Herrera’s fine free-kick found the bottom left corner. The home side continued to create chances, with Ayush Dev Chhetri miscuing a shot and Guarrotxena heading Udanta’s cross onto the goal. However, Bengaluru’s goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu was equal to the task.
FC Goa equalized in the 89th minute through Armando Sadiku’s header from a Sangwan cross, setting up a nail-biting conclusion. Bengaluru responded by pouring forward, and in the added time, Sandesh Jhingan and Brison Fernandes conceded hasty corners. In the chaos that ensued, Namgyal Bhutia delivered a cross that was headed into the high centre of the goal by Chhetri, securing Bengaluru’s spot in the summit clash.
The strike marked Chhetri’s dramatic stoppage-time winner, cementing his reputation as a clutch player. With the win, Bengaluru FC sets up a chance to claim their fourth Indian Super League title, a feat that would solidify their position as one of the most successful teams in the league’s history.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/sport/story/isl-sunil-chhetris-last-gasp-header-sends-bengaluru-fc-in-final-fc-goa-defeated-1195122-2025-04-07?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-04-07 11:41:00
