Mohun Bagan Super Giant edged past Bengaluru FC with a 1-0 win in an intense Indian Super League 2024-25 clash on Monday. The thrilling encounter took place at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata. A stunning volley by Liston Colaco in the 74th minute secured the vital three points for the home team.
This victory pushed the Mariners to 40 points from 18 matches, seven points ahead of second-placed FC Goa, who have a game in hand.
A Cautious Start by Both Teams
The game began on a slow note, with neither side managing to gain early control. Bengaluru FC displayed more fluidity, relying on quick passing to exploit gaps in Mohun Bagan’s defense. On the other hand, Mohun Bagan employed a long-ball strategy to set up attacks, allowing their forwards to create space for wingers Liston Colaco and Manvir Singh.
Bengaluru Creates the First Real Opportunity
The first significant chance came in the 28th minute when Alberto Noguera delivered a pinpoint through-ball to Ryan Williams. The Australian unleashed a powerful shot, but Vishal Kaith made an assured save to keep the score level.
Mariners Struggle to Capitalize
Mohun Bagan had an opportunity in the 35th minute when Greg Stewart found himself in a promising position. However, the Scottish midfielder handled the ball in the box before taking his shot, nullifying the effort.
Chhetri Comes Close Before Halftime
As the first half neared its end, Sunil Chhetri created Bengaluru’s best chance. Combining brilliantly with Noguera, Chhetri dribbled past three defenders inside the penalty area. However, with only the goalkeeper to beat, his shot struck the side netting, leaving the scoreline unchanged at halftime.
Mohun Bagan Intensifies Pressure After the Break
The Mariners started the second half with more urgency. Manvir Singh sent a dangerous cross toward Jamie Maclaren, but Rahul Bheke cleared the ball to safety. Minutes later, Deepak Tangri’s powerful header from a corner forced Gurpreet Singh Sandhu into a spectacular save.
Bengaluru Responds with Strong Attacking Play
In the 56th minute, Bengaluru FC upped the ante. Nikhil Poojari delivered an inch-perfect cross to Edgar Mendez, whose header was tipped over the bar by Vishal Kaith. Moments later, Pedro Capo attempted a shot, but it lacked power and failed to trouble the Mariners’ goalkeeper.
Colaco’s Stunning Volley Breaks the Deadlock
The deadlock was finally broken in the 74th minute. Greg Stewart’s cross was partially cleared by Rahul Bheke, but the ball fell perfectly to Liston Colaco. Positioned outside the box, Colaco unleashed a brilliant volley into the top left corner, leaving Gurpreet completely beaten.
Tactical Changes and Late Drama
Following the goal, Mohun Bagan’s coach, Jose Molina, introduced Jason Cummings and Ashique Kuruniyan to add fresh energy to the attack. Bengaluru’s coach, Gerard Zaragoza, brought on Lalremtluanga Fanai for Suresh Wangjam to strengthen the midfield.
In injury time, Bengaluru came close to equalizing. Rahul Bheke rose highest to meet Ryan Williams’ corner, but his header flew over the bar. Despite their best efforts, Bengaluru failed to find the back of the net.
Defensive Resilience Secures the Win
Mohun Bagan’s defense remained impenetrable in the final moments. The backline thwarted multiple Bengaluru attacks, ensuring the team’s 12th win of the season.
This hard-fought victory solidified Mohun Bagan’s dominance at the top of the ISL table. With their defensive strength and Colaco’s heroics, the Mariners have further cemented their position as title favorites.
