By Our Reporter
Shillong, Feb 21: Bengaluru FC put on a clinical display to defeat NorthEast United FC 2-0 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong, strengthening their position in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 standings.
Despite holding only 37.3% possession, the Blues capitalized on their chances, converting two of their four shots on target.
The win propelled them to fourth place with 34 points from 21 matches, while the Highlanders, now fifth, remain close behind with 32 points.
The visitors started on the front foot, controlling the tempo and creating spaces within the NorthEast United FC defense.
Their early pressure paid off in the third minute when Ryan Williams drifted centrally from his usual wide role to receive a precise through-ball from Alberto Noguera. Williams made no mistake, slotting the ball into the bottom left corner to give Bengaluru an early advantage.
The home side responded in the 18th minute through Alaaeddine Ajaraie, who latched onto a well-delivered cross from Redeem Tlang. Positioned centrally in the box, Ajaraie directed a powerful header on target, but Bengaluru goalkeeper Lalthuammawia Ralte was equal to the task, making a crucial save at the high center of the goal.
NorthEast United FC continued to push forward, with Tlang and Phalguni Singh attempting long-range efforts, but their shots failed to trouble the Bengaluru goal.
Bengaluru nearly doubled their lead before halftime when Pedro Capo set up Noguera just outside the penalty area. However, the midfielder’s shot curled wide of the right post, leaving the score unchanged at the break.
The second half saw a more balanced contest, with both teams exchanging attacking moves in search of the next goal. NorthEast United FC introduced Nestor Albiach, who made an immediate impact by testing Ralte with a well-placed header, only for the Bengaluru shot-stopper to make another key save.
As the match approached its final stages, Bengaluru FC pressed for a second goal to seal the contest. Their persistence paid off in the 81st minute when a defensive lapse inside the Highlanders’ box allowed Noguera to pounce on a loose ball. The Spaniard reacted quickly, striking a low left-footed shot into the bottom left corner to double Bengaluru’s advantage.
With the result secured, Bengaluru saw out the remaining minutes to claim their second consecutive clean sheet and a vital three points, further solidifying their playoff aspirations.