Bengaluru FC kept their winning momentum in the ISL alive by defeating Hyderabad FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Thursday.
The team scored a total of three goals in the match, with Rahul Bheke netting the first, followed by two from Captain Sunil Chhetri, who equaled another record with his performance.
With this victory, Bengaluru FC moved to the top of the table.
Chhetri’s still got it
Sunil Chhetri netted two goals in the second half, tying Bartholomew Ogbeche’s record as the all-time leading scorer with 63 goals.
Chhetri nearly broke the record earlier when his shot from inside the box beat goalkeeper Arshdeep, but the referee ruled a foul by Mendez on the Hyderabad keeper.
Chhetri scored his first goal just five minutes before injury time when Naorem Roshan Singh’s run into the box earned a penalty, which Chhetri calmly converted to make it 2-0.
He added a second goal in stoppage time with a diving header, connecting with a cross from Edgar Mendez in the final moments of the match.
After his international retirement, a well-rested Chhetri continues to be a nightmare for defenders in the ISL.
Sunil Chhetri (Photo credit: FSDL)
The grit of Hyderabad FC
Despite going through a challenging year, Hyderabad FC’s never-give-up attitude stood out.
With a newly assembled squad under new ownership and uncertainty over transfer bans preventing the registration of new players, the young team showed their fighting spirit.
Although it wasn’t enough to secure three points, Hyderabad FC’s first-half performance under coach Thangboi Singto was commendable.
Hyderabad FC players warming up (Photo credit: FSDL)
Vinith Venkatesh Shines
The rising star of Bengaluru FC, who helped secure their first win of the season, continued his exceptional performance.
The day’s first goal came from Vinit’s perfect corner for Rahul Bheke at the far post.
What Did the Coaches Say?
Hyderabad FC coach Thangboi Singto expressed pride in his team’s performance.
“I am proud of my boys. I’m happy with the performance; results will come later,” he said.
“In the first half, we had a few chances, but we still have a long way to go in terms of preparation. We need to keep working hard,” he added.
Zaragoza Mulet, the head coach of Bengaluru FC, echoed his sentiments in the post-match press conference.
“Hyderabad FC played very well. It’s impressive what they’re doing under coach Thangboi. We deserved to win, but we faced a lot of challenges tonight. That’s football,” he said.
What’s Next?
Bengaluru FC will host Mohun Bagan and look to continue their winning streak on September 28, while Hyderabad FC will face Punjab FC at the Den.