Hyderabad FC and Bengaluru FC played a 1-1 draw at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium in the Indian Super League 2024-25 on Saturday. Devendra Murgaonkar’s first-half goal was canceled out by Sunil Chhetri in the second half. Notably, Chhetri, aged 40, reached 10 goals for the second time in his ISL career, having scored 14 goals in the 2017-18 season. Although Bengaluru held 62.4% possession, they managed just one shot on target, which Chhetri converted.
The match began cautiously, with both teams struggling to create clear opportunities. Bengaluru FC tried to break through Hyderabad’s defense, but their attacks lacked coordination. Furthermore, Chhetri was flagged offside twice in the first 20 minutes, highlighting Bengaluru’s offensive challenges.
Hyderabad Takes the Lead
In response, Hyderabad FC found their rhythm. Allan Paulista won a free kick in the attacking half. Ramhlunchhunga then delivered a pinpoint cross to Devendra Murgaonkar, who headed it into the bottom right corner to put Hyderabad ahead in the 21st minute. Murgaonkar kept causing problems for Bengaluru’s defense, and just 12 minutes later, he had another chance. However, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu made a crucial save.
Bengaluru FC Makes Substitutions
Bengaluru FC made four substitutions after halftime, hoping to find a way back into the match. Ryan Williams, Chinglensana Singh, Edgar Mendez, and Lalremtluanga Fanai replaced Aleksandar Jovanovic, Harsh Patre, Pedro Capo, and Shivaldo Singh. Mendez immediately made an impact, meeting a cross from Naorem Mahesh Singh in the 51st minute, but his header went just over the target.
Ramhlunchhunga’s Long Shot
Shortly before the hour mark, Ramhlunchhunga took a powerful long-range shot from over 40 yards. The ball was on target, but Sandhu made an important save in the bottom left corner.
Bengaluru Equalizes
In the 78th minute, Bengaluru FC found the equalizer with a well-executed move. Williams, who had been introduced in the second half, crossed the ball into the box. Chhetri was perfectly positioned to meet the delivery and headed it into the bottom right corner. This marked the fourth time this season that Williams assisted Chhetri, showcasing their strong partnership.
Late Push for a Winner
Following the equalizer, Bengaluru FC continued to press for a winner. They pushed players forward, sending bodies into the attack. Just before the 90th minute, Alberto Noguera attempted a long-range shot, but it missed the target. As a result, both teams settled for a draw.
Looking Ahead
Murgaonkar completed all 13 of his passes, created one goal-scoring chance, and scored once. Hyderabad FC will face Jamshedpur FC on January 23, while Bengaluru FC will take on Odisha FC on January 22.
