Bengaluru FC delivered a sensational performance to thrash defending champions Mumbai City FC 5-0 in the first eliminator of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Saturday, March 29. This dominant win secured Bengaluru’s spot in the semi-finals while ending Mumbai City’s title defence in the opening playoff round.
Mumbai City stuck to their usual attacking setup, which had worked well before, but Bengaluru benefited greatly from midfielder Alberto Noguera’s return. Noguera delivered a midfield masterclass, enabling the hosts to control central spaces often left open by Mumbai’s attacking duo, Lallianzuala Chhangte and Brandon Fernandes.
The first goal came in the eighth minute after smooth teamwork on the right involving Roshan Singh, Rahul Bheke, Noguera, and Vinith Venkatesh. Vinith set up Ryan Williams, who delivered a cross that created confusion in the box. The ball eventually reached Suresh Wangjam, who calmly slotted it past Phurba Lachenpa.
Bengaluru dominated the game, earning a penalty in the 39th minute after Valpuia fouled the relentless Williams. Javi Hernández calmly slotted the spot-kick in the 42nd minute. Williams, a persistent danger, had earlier been thwarted twice by brilliant blocks from Mehtab Singh.
Williams scored early in the second half (52nd minute) after Suresh Wangjam won the ball in midfield and set him up. Williams fired a precise low shot into the far corner.
Sunil Chhetri, coming off the bench, scored the fourth goal in the 76th minute after a sloppy clearance by Lachenpa. Fellow substitute Jorge Pereyra Diaz selflessly assisted the Indian icon, who calmly slotted the ball into an open corner.
Diaz sealed the victory in the 83rd minute, converting from close range following a brilliant through ball by the impressive Noguera.
Mumbai City’s campaign ends in disappointment with a comprehensive defeat. Bengaluru FC, buoyed by their dominant display, now advance to face FC Goa in the two-legged semi-final. The first leg is set for Bengaluru on April 2nd, followed by the return leg in Margao on April 6th.
