Hyderabad FC and Bengaluru FC played to a 1-1 draw at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium on Saturday in the Indian Super League 2024-25. Devendra Murgaonkar put Hyderabad ahead with a first-half goal, and Sunil Chhetri equalized for Bengaluru in the second half. Hyderabad took the lead in the 21st minute. Allan Paulista won a free-kick, which Ramhlunchhunga delivered perfectly. Murgaonkar was in the right spot to head the ball into the bottom right corner.

Bengaluru FC's Challenges and Chhetri’s Response

Bengaluru FC controlled 62.4% of possession but struggled to break down Hyderabad’s defense. They lacked cohesion in their attacking moves. Chhetri was flagged offside twice in the first 20 minutes, adding to their frustration. Meanwhile, Murgaonkar continued to cause problems. In the 33rd minute, he got a good chance to score, but Bengaluru goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu made a crucial save.

Bengaluru FC's Substitutions

In response, Bengaluru made four substitutions at halftime. Ryan Williams, Chinglensana Singh, Edgar Mendez, and Lalremtluanga Fanai came on. Mendez nearly found the back of the net in the 51st minute. He met a cross from Naorem Mahesh Singh, but his header went just over the bar. Just before the hour mark, Ramhlunchhunga took a powerful shot from over 40 yards. The ball was heading on target, but Sandhu made another key save, preventing the goal.

Chhetri's Equalizer

Bengaluru FC finally equalized in the 78th minute. Williams, fresh off the bench, sent in a well-timed cross to Chhetri in the middle of the box. Chhetri met it with a precise header into the bottom right corner. This was the fourth time Williams had assisted Chhetri this season, highlighting their strong connection. Chhetri scored his 10th ISL goal, reaching this milestone for the second time in his career.

Final Push and Missed Chances

After the equalizer, Bengaluru pushed hard for a winner. A few minutes before the 90th minute, Alberto Noguera tried a long-distance shot, but it went wide of the target. Despite their efforts, both teams settled for a 1-1 draw. Bengaluru had 62.4% possession but only one shot on target, which Chhetri converted to secure a point.