Bengaluru, Feb 22: Bengaluru FC were held to a 1-1 draw by NorthEast United FC in their Indian Super League match here on Sunday.
The Blues took a first-half lead through Braian Sanchez in the 18th minute, but the Highlanders responded after the break through Lalrinzuala in the 68th minute.
NorthEast United head coach Juan Pedro Benali made one change, bringing in Robin Yadav in defence for Redeem Tlang as they lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Bengaluru FC head coach Renedy Singh also made a defensive change, introducing Takhellambam Bungson Singh for Rahul Bheke.
NorthEast United’s Parthib Gogoi tested Gurpreet Singh Sandhu inside the opening minute, and Jithin Madathil Subran followed with a blocked effort. Andy Rodriguez then delivered a teasing corner that Michel Zabaco headed against the woodwork.
Despite NorthEast United’s early pressure, it was Bengaluru who struck first. Ashique Kuruniyan released Braian on the left. The Argentine cut inside and drilled a right-footed shot into the bottom corner from outside the box.NorthEast United continued to press. Jithin forced a sharp save from Gurpreet, while Jairo Samperio and Macarton Nickson saw efforts blocked. Just before the interval, Andy’s free-kick delivery struck the woodwork again following a deflection, with Robin unable to apply the finishing touch.
The Highlanders resumed strongly after the break. Zabaco headed wide, and Gurpreet produced a fine diving save at the hour mark to deny Asheer Akhtar. Moments later, he stood tall again to keep out Jairo’s effort. (PTI)
