Mohun Bagan Super Giant defeated Bengaluru FC 1-0 at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Monday in the Indian Super League 2024-25 season. Liston Colaco’s stunning volley in the 74th minute secured the victory for the Mariners, who claimed all three points. As a result, Mohun Bagan now holds a seven-point lead at the top with 40 points from 18 matches. Bengaluru FC, on the other hand, remains in second place with 33 points from 17 matches.

Slow Start

The match began slowly, with both teams struggling to connect passes in midfield. However, Bengaluru FC looked more promising in attack, trying to unlock Mohun Bagan’s defense with quick passes. Meanwhile, the Mariners focused on a more direct style of play, sending long balls to Liston Colaco and Manvir Singh.

Early Opportunities

The first real chance came in the 28th minute when Alberto Noguera played a brilliant ball to Ryan Williams. Williams shot towards goal, but Vishal Kaith was quick to react and made the save. Shortly after, in the 35th minute, Greg Stewart had a chance for the Mariners. However, he handled the ball in the box before attempting his shot, which was disallowed. Despite some promising attacks, Bengaluru FC's defense held strong, denying Mohun Bagan any breakthroughs.

Chhetri’s Missed Chance

Right before halftime, Sunil Chhetri had the best chance of the first half. He combined with Noguera, weaving past three defenders to get into the penalty area. Unfortunately, Chhetri’s shot hit the side netting, and the first half ended with no goals.

Second Half Push

In the second half, Mohun Bagan SG came out stronger, pushing for the opening goal. First, Manvir Singh delivered a dangerous cross to Jamie Maclaren, but Rahul Bheke cleared the ball. The Mariners continued their pressure, and from the following corner, Deepak Tangri’s header forced a save from Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.

Bengaluru’s Missed Chances

Bengaluru FC had another great chance in the 56th minute. Nikhil Poojari sent a brilliant cross to Edgar Mendez, whose header was saved by Kaith. A minute later, Pedro Capo also had an opportunity, but his shot lacked power and was easily collected by Kaith. Bengaluru FC applied sustained pressure with key players like Mendez, Williams, and Chhetri making runs into the penalty area.

Colaco’s Goal

Finally, in the 74th minute, Mohun Bagan broke the deadlock. Stewart’s cross was cleared by Bheke, but Colaco was in the right place to latch onto the ball. He hammered a powerful volley into the top left corner, leaving Gurpreet unable to react in time.

Late Bengaluru Push

Bengaluru FC fought hard to equalize, pressing forward in the final minutes. In injury time, Bheke had a header from a corner, but it sailed over the bar. Although the visitors orchestrated a few threatening moves, Mohun Bagan’s defense stood firm and secured the win.

Key Performer of the Match

Liston Colaco was the standout performer, scoring the only goal of the match. He also contributed with five successful passes, two crosses, and one tackle. Mohun Bagan Super Giant will face Mohammedan SC on February 1, while Bengaluru FC will travel to New Delhi to take on Punjab FC on the same day.