The race for the Indian Super League title is getting hot by the passing day and it is getting much clearer who the ultimate winner would be. Coming from the winter break, it was much clearer that Bengaluru FC were the undisputed No.1 in the race, having been unbeaten the first 20 matches. However, the last few matches showed that the Blues were not invincibles.
They endured defeats at the hands of Delhi Dynamos (3-2), Chennaiyin FC (2-1), and Mumbai FC (1-0), apart from a draw against Kerala Basters.
However, Bengaluru FC sent a fitting answer to the skeptics and showed why they are at the top of the ISL table by romping Goa FC, their contender for the title. The 3-0 thrashing was even more special since the tie was still goalless when BFC were reduced to 10 men in the 42nd minute.
They showed great resilience and fighting spirit to emerge victorious from the early set back.
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Nishu Kumar receives Red
Nishu Kumar was booked in the 25th minute after he tugged Jackichand Singh back. However, the defender was carded for the second time soon after, after he was adjudged to have elbowed the same player when they leapt for the ball.
Carles Cuadrat was incensed after Kumar was giving the marching orders. He made his feelings known to the Pranjal Banerjee, referee, in no uncertain terms.
The game had been an entertaining but tense affair until that moment. However, after the sending-off incident, if felt that the contest would now turn one-sided.
Goals
.@bengalurufc showed immense character and turned on the style in the second half to register an emphatic 3⃣-0⃣ win over @FCGoaOfficial!
— Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) February 21, 2019
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Quite ironically, the dismissal worked in Bengaluru FC’s favour as they attacked with more intent.
The first goal soon followed from a freekick into the box from the left wing was flicked by Miku. Juanan Gonzalez beautifully controlled the ball on his chest before drilling it past the Goan custodian in an vehement fashion.
Watching from the stands, Sunil Chhetri burst in delight at the sight. Having seen the first goal trickle down, FC Goa forced themselves higher up the pitch in search of the equaliser. However, putting more bodies forward backfired as they were caught on a brilliant counterattack minutes later.
Dimas Delgado sent a super cross for Udanta Singh. The latter stomped through on goal to take home BFC’s second goal. It arguably the duo’s best night of the season, with both of them creating ample opportunities.
Miku, who hadn’t scored since his injury return, the put the result beyond Goa’s reach with a fine strike. The Venezuelan collected the ball, dribbled past his marker, and struck from 25 yards out with a sublime shot that ended up in the top right corner.
Sergio Lobera’s men were guilty of poor finishing, and only have themselves to blame for wasting a slew of chances.
Meanwhile, Bengaluru FC move to the top of the table with the emphatic win. They would certainly remain in the spot with only group match to go.
#BENGOA was a thrilling encounter which saw some stellar individual performances! Now you to decide the fate of the Fans' Player of the Match!
— Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) February 21, 2019
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