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SportsPosted at: Apr 2 2025 11:00PM


BFC take crucial lead with 2-0 win in SF first leg

Bengaluru, Apr 2 (UNI) Sandesh Jhingan’s own goal and a stunning second-half strike by Edgar Mendez secured Bengaluru FC a 2-0 victory against FC Goa in the opening leg of their Indian Super League semifinal at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium here on Wednesday.
The result, in front of a packed fans of over 19,000, extended the Blues’ unbeaten run at home against the Gaurs, strengthening their position ahead of the return leg.
Bengaluru FC Head Coach Gerard Zaragoza made a solitary change to the starting lineup, introducing Sivasakthi Narayanan in place of Vinith Venkatesh. Meanwhile, FC Goa’s Manolo Marquez opted for Sahil Tavora over Rowllin Borges in midfield, while Brison Fernandes replaced Mohammed Yasir.
The hosts started on an aggressive note, pressing high and displaying incisiveness from the outset. An early chance saw Alberto Noguera thread a precise pass to Mendez, whose cut-back for Ryan Williams was crucially intercepted by Odei Onaindia.
While Bengaluru FC maintained pressure in attack, Goa also carved out opportunities. Pedro Capo forced Hrithik Tiwari into action with a header from a Noguera free-kick, while Namgyal Bhutia produced a vital interception to thwart a move involving Carl McHugh and Brison Fernandes.
As both teams sought control of possession, Williams embarked on a dazzling run after the water break, narrowly missing the far corner with a chipped effort over Hrithik. The home side’s persistent attacking play eventually bore fruit in the 42nd minute when Jhingan inadvertently headed Mendez’s cross into his own net, handing Bengaluru FC the lead.
The Blues intensified their offensive play in the second half, with full-backs pushing high up the field. The strategy yielded immediate results, as Bhutia exchanged passes with Williams before delivering a pinpoint cross for Mendez to hammer home in the 51st minute, doubling the advantage.
Seeking to capitalise on their momentum, Zaragoza introduced Sunil Chhetri and Jorge Pereyra Diaz for Sivasakthi and Mendez. FC Goa responded with sustained pressure, creating opportunities through Iker Guarrotxena and Onaindia, both of whom failed to convert headers. Later, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu was called into action, denying Boris Singh’s curling attempt with a fine save.
Despite the visitors’ relentless attacks, Bengaluru FC’s all-Indian defensive unit stood firm, securing a valuable advantage heading into the second leg.
The two teams will resume their battle in the decisive second leg at the Fatorda Stadium on Sunday, April 6. UNI BDN SSP
Tags: #BFC take crucial lead with 2-0 win in SF first leg
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