Bengaluru FC stormed into the semi-finals of the Indian Super League (ISL) playoffs with a resounding 5-0 victory over Mumbai City FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium. The former ISL champions were dismantled by a relentless Blues side that capitalized on every opportunity, setting up a thrilling clash with FC Goa in the next round.
While Bengaluru FC put on a masterclass in efficiency, Mumbai City FC struggled to find their rhythm. The visitors’ first shot on target only came in the second half, a testament to their inability to challenge the hosts. Goals from Suresh Singh Wangjam, Edgar Mendez, Ryan Williams, Sunil Chhetri, and Jorge Pereyra Diaz sealed the emphatic win, making it a night to forget for the Islanders. However, the game wasn’t without controversy, as key refereeing decisions sparked debates among fans and pundits alike.
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Early Breakthrough for Bengaluru FC
The Blues wasted no time asserting their dominance, breaking the deadlock in just the ninth minute. Ryan Williams delivered a low cross into the Mumbai City FC box, causing chaos in the visitors’ defense.
Thaer Krouma failed to control the ball, allowing Suresh Singh Wangjam to pounce on the loose ball and fire a precise shot into the bottom right corner. The early goal set the tone for Bengaluru FC’s relentless attacking display and put Mumbai City FC on the back foot from the start.
Early Controversy: Should Bengaluru FC Have Been Reduced to 10?
Right from the kickoff, the match was filled with high intensity, and Bengaluru FC’s Edgar Mendez found himself at the center of an early flashpoint. The Spanish forward clattered into Yoell Van Nieff with an aggressive challenge that left the Mumbai City FC midfielder on the ground.
Replays suggested that Mendez could have avoided the collision, and many felt that the challenge warranted at least a yellow card. A sending-off in the opening minute could have drastically altered the outcome, but the referee allowed play to continue, much to the frustration of the visitors.
A Contentious Penalty Tilts the Balance
Another turning point came just before halftime when Mumbai City FC defender Hmingthanmawia Ralte brought down Ryan Williams inside the box. The referee awarded a penalty, a decision that divided opinions.
While it appeared to be a foul in real-time, slow-motion replays indicated that the defender may have gotten a touch on the ball before Williams’ leg clipped him. Regardless, Edgar Mendez stepped up to the spot and coolly slotted home, putting Bengaluru FC 2-0 ahead and leaving Mumbai City FC with an uphill battle.
Clinical Bengaluru FC Run Riot in the Second Half
Already trailing by two goals, Mumbai City FC needed a strong response in the second half. However, Bengaluru FC refused to take their foot off the gas. Their high-pressing approach paid off in the 62nd minute when Suresh Singh Wangjam won possession and quickly fed Williams, who made no mistake in placing his shot into the bottom corner.
As Mumbai City FC pushed forward in search of a consolation goal, they left spaces at the back, which Bengaluru FC exploited ruthlessly. Sunil Chhetri added his name to the scoresheet in the 76th minute with a stunning long-range strike that caught Phurba Lachenpa off guard.
The demolition was completed in the 83rd minute when Jorge Pereyra Diaz, formerly of Mumbai City FC, found the net against his former club. Set up by ex-Mumbai City FC midfielder Alberto Noguera, Diaz made no mistake from close range, sending the home fans into raptures.
A Tactical Masterclass by Bengaluru FC
Despite having only 40.5% possession, Bengaluru FC displayed supreme efficiency, converting five of their six shots on target into goals. Gerard Zaragoza’s men executed their game plan to perfection, pressing aggressively and punishing defensive lapses with lethal finishing.
Suresh Singh Wangjam played a pivotal role in midfield, completing 12 of his 13 passes while also contributing a goal and an assist. His ability to dictate play from central areas was instrumental in Bengaluru FC’s dominant performance.
Mumbai City FC’s Season Ends in Disappointment
For Mumbai City FC, the defeat marked a bitter end to a season that had promised much more. Their inability to break down Bengaluru FC’s resolute defense, coupled with defensive errors, proved costly. Brandon Fernandes and Nathan Rodrigues had fleeting moments of hope, but their missed chances summed up a frustrating outing for the Islanders.
With momentum firmly on their side, Bengaluru FC now turn their focus to the semi-finals against FC Goa on April 2. If they can replicate this ruthless display, they will be strong contenders for the ISL crown.
For Mumbai City FC, it’s back to the drawing board as they reflect on what went wrong in a match where they were completely outclassed.
Read More: Legends of the Playoffs: Top 5 Players with the Most Appearances in ISL Playoff History
FAQs
How did Bengaluru FC qualify for the ISL semi-finals?
Bengaluru FC secured a spot in the semi-finals by defeating Mumbai City FC 5-0 in a dominant playoff performance at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium.
Who were the goal scorers for Bengaluru FC against Mumbai City FC?
Suresh Singh Wangjam, Edgar Mendez, Ryan Williams, Sunil Chhetri, and Jorge Pereyra Diaz found the net in Bengaluru FC’s emphatic victory.
What was the major controversy in Bengaluru FC vs Mumbai City FC?
The game saw two key controversial moments—Edgar Mendez’s early challenge on Yoell Van Nieff, which could have led to a red card, and a questionable penalty awarded to Bengaluru FC in the first half.
Who will Bengaluru FC face in the semi-finals after beating Mumbai City FC?
After their 5-0 win, Bengaluru FC will face off against FC Goa in the ISL semi-finals on April 2.
How did Mumbai City FC perform in the match?
Mumbai City FC struggled throughout the game, failing to register a shot on target until the second half and ultimately suffering a crushing 5-0 defeat.
