Bengaluru FC defeated NorthEast United FC 2-0 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong during the Indian Super League 2024-25. Despite holding only 37.3% possession, Bengaluru FC capitalized on their chances, scoring twice from four shots on target. Meanwhile, NorthEast United FC created more opportunities, delivering 25 crosses compared to Bengaluru’s 10. However, Gerard Zaragoza’s team secured the win and moved to fourth place in the standings with 34 points from 21 games. NorthEast United FC now sits in fifth with 32 points.

Strong Start by Bengaluru FC

From the beginning, Bengaluru FC controlled the tempo. They moved the ball swiftly, switching play between the center and flanks. Their coordinated attack quickly broke through NorthEast United’s defense. In the third minute, Ryan Williams found himself in the center of the box rather than his usual wide position. Alberto Noguera, fresh off a brace against Jamshedpur FC, provided a slick pass. Williams calmly slotted the ball into the bottom left corner, giving Bengaluru an early lead.

NorthEast United FC Responds

The home team pushed back in the 18th minute. Redeem Tlang sent a precise cross to Alaaeddine Ajaraie, who attempted a powerful header. However, Bengaluru’s goalkeeper, Lalthuammawia Ralte, reacted swiftly to make a crucial save. NorthEast United continued to press. In the 31st minute, Tlang assisted Phalguni Singh outside the box. Singh attempted a long-range shot, but it sailed wide. Bengaluru quickly countered. Pedro Capo set up Noguera just outside the 18-yard box, but his shot also missed the target.

Intense Second Half

Both teams continued exchanging attacks after halftime. NorthEast United tried to shake things up, with Nestor Albiach becoming more involved. In one key moment, Thoi Singh delivered a perfect cross to Nestor, who directed a shot on target. However, Ralte was well-positioned and denied the attempt. NorthEast United then switched to a direct approach. Goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh launched a long ball toward Ajaraie. The striker tried an ambitious shot from outside the box, but it missed the target.

Bengaluru Seals the Win

As the match neared its end, Bengaluru pushed for a second goal to secure the win. Chaos erupted inside the NorthEast United box as both teams scrambled for possession. Amid the confusion, Noguera seized the opportunity. He latched onto a loose ball in the center of the box and fired a left-footed shot into the bottom left corner in the 81st minute. This goal provided Bengaluru with much-needed breathing room. They held on to keep a second consecutive clean sheet and claim another three points.

Key Performer

Alberto Noguera played a pivotal role, scoring once and providing an assist. He completed 16 out of 21 passes, made one clearance, one interception, and recorded four tackles.

What’s Next?

NorthEast United FC will face Chennaiyin FC on March 3, while Bengaluru FC will take on Chennaiyin FC on February 25. Both teams will look to strengthen their standings in the league.