Bengaluru pip Northeast 1-0
GUWAHATI: Bengaluru FC picked up their first win on the road as they edged past Northeast United FC 1-0 after Miku’s second-half strike in the Indian Super League (ISL) here on Friday. The 47th minute strike, thanks largely to a horrible blunder by goalkeeper TP Rehenesh, was enough for the in-form table toppers to finish the game with three points.
This was Miku’s fourth goal of the ISL season in as many games. With Roca handing Spanish midfielder Dimas Delgado his Bengaluru debut, he had to bench a foreign player and Juanan Gonzalez made way for Subhasish Bose in defence. Lalthuammawia Ralte in goal was a decision that Roca left late.
Bengaluru had more ball possession, but Northeast United also threatened often.
Danilo had the best chance of the first half when, in the 40th minute, his shot from the right saw Ralte make another diving save.
But all Bengaluru needed was two minutes into the second half to grab the lead in Guwahati. With the ball at his feet and Miku closing him down, Rehenesh’s panic clearance could go only as far as Udanta who squared the ball to the Bengaluru number 7. Calm as ever, Miku picked his corner, leaving Rehenesh with no chance at all.
GOA TAKE ON BLASTERS
FATORDA: A resurgent FC Goa will host a winless Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League (ISL) here on Saturday. Historically, the two sides cannot be separated, having won three matches apiece from the six meetings between them. But going by form, Goa will be buoyant after their 4-3 win over Bengaluru FC.
EAST BENGAL FACE SHILLONG LAJONG
KOLKATA: With no win from two matches, East Bengal will be under pressure when they host an upbeat Shillong Lajong FC in an I-league match in Barasat on Saturday. Having suffered a defeat against Mohun Bagan in the last round, East Bengal will be desperate for their first win, while Shillong Lajong will look to continue their winning spree. In another match, Neroca FC and Gokulam Kerala FC will be eyeing their first win as they face off in Kochi.