Vinith Venkatesh's Debut Goal Hands Bengaluru FC Winning Start in ISL 2024-25

Bengaluru FC kicked off their ISL 2024-25 season with a narrow 1-0 victory over East Bengal FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium. Vinith Venkatesh's debut goal was the match-winner. The game was marked by aggressive and defensive plays from both sides, ultimately resulting in a hard-fought victory for BFC.

Bengaluru FC (BFC) inaugurated their Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 campaign with a slender 1-0 triumph over East Bengal FC (EBFC) at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Saturday. The decisive moment came from Vinith Venkatesh, whose solitary goal distinguished the two teams.

The match began with a cautious approach from both sides, replete with numerous tackles aiming to disrupt the momentum. Nandha Kumar's mistimed challenge on Suresh Wangjam in the third minute earned him a yellow card. Despite this early caution, the game saw further aggressive tackles, with Lalchungnunga and Hector Yuste also receiving bookings.

The first major chance arose as Jeakson Singh tried to capitalize on a loose ball, forcing Bengaluru's goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu into a crucial save. Shortly after, Bengaluru FC's Edgar Mendez launched a long-range attempt that narrowly missed the target. Venkatesh's match-winning goal came in the 26th minute, firing into the bottom corner after a splendid move initiated by Mendez.

The second half maintained its aggressive tempo. Despite East Bengal's efforts, including a powerful attempt by Nandha Kumar that was saved by Gurpreet, they couldn't secure an equalizer. Late substitutions by both teams aimed to change the game's dynamics, but neither side could find the net again. East Bengal's hopes were dashed when Lalchungnunga was sent off in the 87th minute. Eventually, Bengaluru FC secured a hard-fought victory.

Looking ahead, East Bengal will travel to Kochi to face Kerala Blasters on September 22, while Bengaluru FC will host Hyderabad FC on September 19.

(With inputs from agencies.)