Bengaluru FC booked their place in the Indian Super League 2024-25 playoffs with a narrow 1-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Tuesday. As a result, the Blues climbed to third place with 37 points. Meanwhile, Chennaiyin FC, who remained at 24 points from 22 matches, saw their playoff hopes come to an end. Rahul Bheke’s goal in the 37th minute turned out to be the decisive moment of the match.
Chennaiyin FC Starts Strong but Misses a Key Opportunity
Right from the beginning, Chennaiyin FC looked eager to take control. In the ninth minute, they created a promising attacking move. First, Jiteshwor Singh carried the ball through the midfield and passed it wide to stretch Bengaluru FC’s defense. Then, the team swiftly moved forward on the right flank, looking for an opening.
Soon after, Connor Shields delivered a precise cross into the box, where Lalrinliana Hnamte found himself in a great position. He had enough time to take a composed shot. However, he rushed his effort, sending the ball wide of the right post. As a result, Chennaiyin FC missed a golden opportunity to take an early lead.
Bengaluru FC Takes Advantage and Breaks the Deadlock
Despite Chennaiyin FC’s early pressure, Bengaluru FC remained patient. Eventually, in the 37th minute, they capitalized on a set-piece opportunity. Alberto Noguera stepped up to take a free kick from the right side. After carefully assessing his options, he delivered a perfectly placed cross that floated over the Chennaiyin FC defensive line.
At the right moment, Rahul Bheke made a smart run into the six-yard box. He connected with the ball using his right foot and struck it into the top right corner. Instantly, the home crowd erupted in celebration as Bengaluru FC took the lead.
Bengaluru FC Maintains Pressure and Creates More Chances
Following the goal, Bengaluru FC continued to push forward. In the 56th minute, Noguera once again showcased his set-piece expertise. Instead of sending a high cross, he played a low-driven ball into the penalty area. Chinglensana Singh reacted quickly and fired a left-footed shot. However, Chennaiyin FC goalkeeper Mohammed Nawaz made an impressive save to keep his team in the game.
A few minutes later, in the 73rd minute, Bengaluru FC nearly doubled their lead. Ryan Williams made an impressive solo run down the right flank, using his dribbling skills to beat defenders. He then delivered a cross into the box. Although the defense cleared the ball, it fell to Lalremtluanga Fanai just outside the area. Without hesitation, he unleashed a powerful left-footed strike. Unfortunately, the ball narrowly missed the top left corner.
Chennaiyin FC’s Last Effort Ends in Disappointment
As the match approached its final stages, Chennaiyin FC had one last chance to equalize. In the 83rd minute, they launched a fast counterattack. Irfan Yadwad sprinted past Bengaluru FC’s defenders and delivered a powerful cross into the box.
Daniel Chima Chukwu found himself in an ideal position near the goal. However, he failed to control the ball properly. Instead of converting the chance, he sent his shot off target. Consequently, Chennaiyin FC’s playoff hopes came crashing down.
Bengaluru FC Secures Victory and Advances to Playoffs
In the final moments, Bengaluru FC focused on protecting their lead. Despite Chennaiyin FC’s efforts, the Blues remained solid at the back. Eventually, the referee blew the final whistle, confirming Bengaluru FC’s hard-earned victory. As a result, they secured their place in the playoffs, while Chennaiyin FC exited the competition after failing to capitalize on their key opportunities.
