In a remarkably memorable match that entertained the fans from the start till the end, Bengaluru FC and FC Goa managed to grab a single point as they shared the spoils at a 2-2 draw at the Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru. Although the final score appears balanced, both_franchises revealed their strengths and weaknesses. Make no mistake, this result places Bengaluru at the top all alone but the amount of points deliberately dropped does require them to keep pushing for that much needed consistency.
First Half: One of the Best Starting Moments in this Season so far
Another thrilling affair began as both the teams were eager to grab the opportunity and take control of the match. Taking full advantage of its home support, Bengaluru FC got into the midfield quickly and tried to dictate the flow of the game. They targeted FC Goa’s defense with a range of early ball deliveries but the latter was well covered by Ivan Gonzalez and Seriton Fernandes.
However, it was not literally the end of fc-expectations as FC Goa still had other aces in their sleeves. For them counter attacks were smooth and efficient and Alberto Noguera was quick enough to grab control of the midfield, while Firmino was always ready to take the charge with the ball. Even though it seemed like Bengaluru were on the front foot at the start of the match, it was fc-goa who managed to score in the 27th minute.
With love, she tricked Noguera but she did a great job in deceiving Ignition. This situation allowed Igor Gonzalez to rise out of his comfort zone and head the ball over the defenders and into the goal which disturbed the netting, scoring the very first goal of the match paying off their efforts.
This goal was like a slap in the face for FC Bengaluru who seemed to be on a roll with calls and dominance, but it was able to put some effort on the scoreboard every now and then. It was the very First Half, and time was not favorable for either side as scores were stuck at 1.
But in an attempted to set the score in a more solidified manner, Roy Suresh and Wangjam were able to work together to put the ball at the crucial spot and Roy Krishna the Bengaluru striker put the ball past to find the right spot, this bought a new breath into the game as the score moved in favor of 1-1. The crowd went ecstatic as it seemed to be an interesting half, and as it seem like things were turned in their favor, they were looking forward to the Second Half.
Moving on into the next half it is bound to get more interesting as the Tournament of Strength begun but little did they know the lack of energy would turn into a contest of strength between the two FC opponents that were dominating as it seemed their eyes were set onto the second goal as they were making a run toward the goal line with every chance assessed by the defenders. The out-pour into the beginning changes set in Ramires and Suresh giving them the control they needed, while the two Synergy were able to pose a larger threat to their opposing side.
It was in the 58th minute that retributions came into play as Noguera managed to sneak the ball into the net the spot their struggling score to 2-1.
Sadaoui has added a blistering goal to his resume that began with him receiving the ball just on the cusp of Bengaluru’s half, he dashed through two defenders and with a graceful movement slotted the ball over the reach of the Goalkeeper Sandhu into the net. Just on the cusp of one’s faith, the shot spoke of Sadaoui’s skills not only in handling the ball but in also having the finish which reclaimed Goa’s supremacy over Bengaluru with 2-1.
Bengaluru FC, instructed by their coach to achieve success, displayed burgeoning energy in their game. Javi Hernandez proved to be an important role in Bengaluru’s front, as he worked alongside Krishna and Wangjam to come up with a few chances. In the 73rd minute, Krishna was called to action yet again. Krishna was found in the box by a weighted accurate ball by Hernandez, The Fijian striker was calm as he controlled the ball to fire it past goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh and the score levelled to 2-2.
The equalizer caused wild celebrations among the Bengaluru fans, however both teams continued to push for the winner. A good opportunity for Goa unfolded in the 80th minute when Sadaoui ghosted into space inside the Bengaluru six-yard box, however his shot was well saved from being a goal by Alan Costa’s brilliant last ditch tackle.
Final Act: The Final Pursuit For The Winner
With the game finding its end, both the teams tried their levelling scores in order to win the game.
Bangaluru kept the pressure and created a chance for the captain Sunil Chhetri who managed to get the ball off a corner kick and attempted to score by heading it towards the goal. However, Dheeraj Singh was able to save that shot, the contest came to an end having a situation when Suresh Wangjam aimed for the top corner of the net from distance, however he missed the shot which meant that the score stayed at 2-2.
As the final whistle went off, Both the teams had to settle for staring at each other. It is quite clear that some disappointment shall prevail in the Bengaluru FC camp as they would have been favorites to come out with a win where by upping the score to 3-2. At least for the time being, they do occupy the top slot in ISL standings. Regarding FC Goa, the quote does seem to lack any clarity as they will feel aggrieved for able to collect only one point staring the game in the second half and reestablish that lead.
Match Takeaways
What is evident is the fact that attacking is a two sided sword and We cannot be letting are the attacking abilities be exemplary whilst our defense is weak. Roy Krishna and Javi Hernandez’s brilliant visions showcased Bengaluru FC’s attacking potential in the game. On the other hand, the minute weakness in their defense which everyone has been bashing in this season saw them lose a two goal lead against goa where all goals scored offsides and counter-attacks.
Defence has been the main area of concern for FC Goa where goals can easily be scored despite the strong offensive effort provided.
Dheeraj Singh had demonstrated some moments of brilliance in the match but made some Mohr mistakes when he did not manage to save Krishna’s second goal. If Goa is to be in contention for the rest of the season, I think they need to work on their defence. Tactical Play: Both the sets of players had a wide approach for structured and aggressive football in the second half.
Both Owen Coyle of Bengaluru and Carlos Pena of Goa will be pleased with their side’s attacking display but will be also concerned with the defensive lapses that lead to the conceding of goals. The performance of the Bengaluru FC was greatly influenced by the presence of the Fijian striker Krishna. He scored an instant equaliser which showed his scoring prowess and his understanding with his teammates like Hernandez and Wangjam made the attack of the team flowing and dangerous throughout the game.
Final Assessment The 2-2 draw between the Bengaluru FC and the FC goa was an action packed match that kept every supporter on the edge of their seats from the first second till the very end.
Both the teams showed their best, with Bengaluru FC earning a point which helped them to scale up the ISL points table for some time, while FC Goa showed determination but was unable to convert to their advantages any of the three point winning chances which number they had. Since the season is still at an early stage, both teams would aim at improving their overall performances and working on their defensive systems.
Both teams’ supporters will be looking forward to their next matches, aiming for better performances as the competition for the ISL title heats up.
If you are interested for more: Bengaluru FC drew 2-2 with FC Goa Highlights, ISL 2024-25: Bengaluru momentarily ascends to the top following a draw with Gaurs Rajat Patidar’s explosive fifty propels Madhya Pradesh to the SMAT final after a 13-year hiatus.