Bengaluru FC delivered a stunning performance at Ekana International Football Stadium, defeating Inter Kashi FC 3-1 in a thrilling ISL encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats throughout.
This win further cements Bengaluru FC’s position as one of ISL’s most consistent sides. Their clinical finishing, high possession, and sharp pressing made them simply unplayable on the night.
Lineups: Starting XI for Both Teams
Inter Kashi FC (3-5-2): L. Tarres (GK); N. Kumar, S. Mandi, N. Chandan; S. Passi, S. Llamas, R. Danu, T.S. Haobam, W. Vaz; N. Petkevičius, A. Planas
Bengaluru FC (4-4-2): G. Singh Sandhu (GK); R. Bheke, Chinglensana, N. Poojari, N. Singh; S. Kuziev, B. Sánchez, A. Kuruniyan, L. Fanai; N. Bhutia, S. Chhetri
First Half: Kuruniyan Breaks the Deadlock Early
Bengaluru FC burst out of the blocks with intent, dominating possession from the first whistle. Their aggressive pressing forced Inter Kashi into errors repeatedly in the opening exchanges.
Just 21 minutes in, Ashique Kuruniyan found the back of the net to give Bengaluru a well-deserved 0-1 lead. It was a moment of pure quality that the crowd simply couldn’t ignore.
Inter Kashi refused to roll over, showing commendable heart and fighting spirit. In the 39th minute, Alfred Planas Moya leveled it up at 1-1, assisted brilliantly by midfielder R. Danu.
That equalizer injected massive energy into the home side. The teams went into half-time locked at 1-1, setting up what promised to be a pulsating and dramatic second half.
Second Half: Brian Sánchez Takes Over the Show
Bengaluru came out with renewed energy in the second half, completely dominating the midfield battle. Inter Kashi struggled to contain their fluid movement and intelligent off-the-ball running.
The 47th minute saw a tactical change as Suresh Singh Wangjam replaced Lalremtluanga Fanai for Bengaluru. This substitution gave the Blues’ midfield fresh legs and even sharper control.
Inter Kashi suffered a blow in the 61st minute when Nishchal Chandan was forced off injured. Prasanth Karuthadathkuni stepped in but struggled to stabilize the Inter Kashi defensive line.
Brian Sánchez then produced a moment of magic in the 69th minute with a thunderous header, giving Bengaluru a crucial 1-2 lead. The away fans erupted in absolute joy and disbelief.
Inter Kashi pushed hard for an equalizer, making multiple substitutions, including Jayesh Rane and Seiminlen Doungel in the 84th minute, but Bengaluru’s defensive structure remained rock-solid.
Goal Scorers at a Glance
| Minute | Player | Team | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21′ | Ashique Kuruniyan | Bengaluru FC | 0 – 1 |
| 39′ | Alfred Planas (Asst: R. Danu) | Inter Kashi FC | 1 – 1 |
| 69′ | Brian Sánchez (Header) | Bengaluru FC | 1 – 2 |
| 90+8′ | Brian Sánchez | Bengaluru FC | 1 – 3 |
Sunil Chhetri Makes Way as Bengaluru Manage the Game
In the 77th minute, legend Sunil Chhetri was substituted off for Monirul Molla, drawing warm applause from fans. Vinith Venkatesh also came on for Namgyal Bhutia in a double change.
Monirul Molla, however, picked up a yellow card in the 88th minute after coming on. The Blues were forced to hold firm in the dying stages of a tense and feisty encounter.
Team Statistics: Bengaluru FC Outclass Inter Kashi in Every Department
| Inter Kashi | Stat | Bengaluru FC |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | Shots | 15 |
| 1 | Shots on Target | 8 |
| 37% | Possession | 63% |
| 11 | Fouls | 9 |
| 2 | Yellow Cards | 2 |
| 0 | Red Cards | 0 |
| 2 | Offsides | 1 |
| 4 | Corners | 6 |
Conclusion: Bengaluru FC Show Championship Mentality
This was a night that showcased exactly what makes Bengaluru FC such a formidable ISL club. Their attacking depth, tactical awareness, and composure under pressure were simply outstanding throughout.
Brian Sánchez was undoubtedly the man of the match with his brace. Ashique Kuruniyan’s early opener and the overall team display make this one of Bengaluru’s finest performances this season.
Inter Kashi showed glimpses of quality, especially through Alfred Planas, but could not match Bengaluru’s intensity and depth. This defeat will be a tough lesson for the young Varanasi-based club.
Football fans across India were treated to a fantastic ISL spectacle tonight. Bengaluru FC marches on with three vital points, while Inter Kashi must regroup and come back stronger next time.
