Rahul Bheke’s Thirty seventh-minute strike helped Bengaluru FC notch up a slender 1-0 win over Chennaiyin FC and seal an Indian Super League playoffs berth on the Sree Kanteerava Stadium right here on Tuesday.
After Ryan Williams was needlessly fouled by D. Vignesh, the Aussie despatched an outstanding supply from the ensuing set-piece. Defender Bheke, unmarked and free, made a well-disguised run on the far put up to bury the ball in with flourish.
The outcome despatched BFC third within the desk (22 matches, 37 factors) — a place it would need to retain, for ending third or fourth will make sure that the single-legged playoffs match shall be at house. On the opposite hand, Owen Coyle’s Chennaiyin stands eradicated from the race.
Interestingly, regardless of not being the higher group, Chennaiyin may have walked away with full factors, however for forwards Wilmar Jordan Gil’s and Daniel Chima Chukwu’s profligacy. The former missed a free-header from point-blank vary on the stroke of half-time whereas the latter despatched the ball vast from six yards out on 83 minutes.
But for these nervy moments, BFC boss Gerard Zaragoza must be joyful. There had been flowing strikes and slick passing manoeuvres among the many entrance three of Alberto Noguera, Williams and Edgar Mendez. The defence was firm too, with Chinglensana Singh and Namgyal Bhutia making a few last-ditch clearances.
A minor irritant on an in any other case joyful night shall be about how the host invited strain till the very finish and didn’t see the sport out with confidence. But with a top-six berth confirmed, it’s a fear for one more day.
The outcome: Bengaluru FC 1 (Bheke 37) bt Chennaiyin FC 0.
Published – February 25, 2025 10:01 pm IST
