Bengaluru FC Beat Kerala Blasters 3-1 And More From Matchweek 6 Of ISL 2024-25

In an action-packed matchday in the Indian Super League (ISL), fans witnessed thrilling battles as Bengaluru FC broke their away drought with a commanding 3-1 win over Kerala Blasters, and Chennaiyin FC salvaged a late 2-2 draw against FC Goa. The results sent ripples through the league standings, with Bengaluru soaring to the top and Chennaiyin fighting to stay competitive. Let’s dive into the key moments and strategies that defined these matches and the impact they’ll have on the season.

Bengaluru’s 598-Day Drought Ends in Dominant Fashion

Bengaluru FC ended their 598-day wait for an away victory with a stunning 3-1 win over Kerala Blasters in Kochi. Under the guidance of Gerard Zaragoza, Bengaluru’s impressive performance saw them climb four points clear at the top of the table, amassing 16 points from six games. This feat mirrors their start to the 2018-19 season, which eventually saw them top the league stages and lift the ISL trophy. The match showcased Bengaluru’s balanced approach in both attack and defense, laying the groundwork for what they hope will be a successful season.

Jorge Pereyra Diaz’s Stunning Opener Puts Bengaluru Ahead

The game began with high intensity as Jorge Pereyra Diaz capitalized on an error from Kerala Blasters’ Pritam Kotal, seizing the ball and delivering a chip that soared over Kerala’s goalkeeper Som Kumar to give Bengaluru a 1-0 lead. The goal underscored Diaz’s keen eye for goal and Bengaluru’s readiness to pounce on any defensive lapses from their opponents. This clinical finish set the tone for Bengaluru’s attacking play, which Kerala’s defense struggled to contain throughout the match.

Kerala Blasters Fight Back with Jimenez’s Penalty Equalizer

Despite the early setback, Kerala Blasters regrouped and found their rhythm. A critical moment came when Rahul Bheke’s tackle from behind on Kwame Peprah earned Kerala a penalty just before halftime. Jesus Jimenez coolly converted, leveling the score at 1-1 and reigniting hopes for the home fans. The penalty shifted momentum in Kerala’s favor, and for a while, it looked as though the Blasters were in control. However, Bengaluru’s resilience and strategic substitutions would prove too much for the hosts to handle in the later stages.

Mendez’s Heroics Seal Victory for Bengaluru

Late in the second half, Zaragoza’s decision to bring on Mendez turned the tide decisively in Bengaluru’s favor. Seizing a spilled cross from Som Kumar, Mendez tapped the ball into an empty net, handing Bengaluru the lead once again. In the dying moments of the game, with Kerala Blasters pushing forward for an equalizer, Mendez exploited an opening in the defense to score his second goal of the night, marking his third of the season. This display of sharp finishing and tactical awareness by Mendez not only secured the win but also highlighted Bengaluru’s depth and adaptability in high-stakes situations.

Chennaiyin FC and FC Goa Battle to a Controversial 2-2 Draw

Elsewhere, in Chennai, the clash between Chennaiyin FC and FC Goa ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw, with Daniel Chima Chukwu scoring a late equalizer for the hosts. The match saw twists and turns, with both teams showing resilience and a will to win. Chennaiyin took the lead early on, benefiting from an unexpected deflection off Odei Onaindia’s clearance, which hit Wilman Jordan Gil and found its way into the net. Goa responded strongly, however, with Udanta Singh equalizing just before halftime with a shoulder strike off a set piece that left the Chennaiyin defense helpless.

Sadiku and Chukwu’s Goals Define a Riveting Second Half

FC Goa took the lead in the second half with a penalty from Armando Sadiku, his fifth goal of the season. The penalty was awarded after Dejan Drazic was fouled by Chennaiyin’s Samik Mitra, giving Goa the advantage. However, Chennaiyin FC refused to back down, and in a contentious moment, Chukwu’s header off a set piece was initially saved by goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani. The ball then dribbled along the goal line, and although replays were inconclusive about whether it fully crossed the line, the referee awarded the goal, sparking a wave of debate.

ISL Standings and Season Implications

These results have significant implications for the ISL standings. Bengaluru FC’s triumph sees them top the league with a four-point cushion, highlighting their resurgence under Zaragoza. Kerala Blasters, meanwhile, will need to regroup after a disappointing defeat, especially on home turf. Chennaiyin FC’s hard-fought draw leaves them striving for consistency, while FC Goa, despite the dropped points, showed promising signs under Manolo Marquez’s leadership.

The drama of matchday 6 underscores the competitiveness of the ISL this season, with each team battling for points in closely contested fixtures. As the league progresses, fans can look forward to more such exhilarating encounters that reflect the growing quality and excitement of Indian football.

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