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Bengaluru FC and FC Goa played out a goalless draw in a tightly contested match at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on October 25. The game was marked by missed opportunities on both ends, with neither team able to find the back of the net.
The encounter began with Bengaluru FC's Sunil Chhetri missing an early chance, denied by a strong defensive effort from Sandesh Jhingan and Jay Gupta. Goa, too, had their opportunities, notably with Victor Rodriguez's precise deliveries finding Carlos Martinez and Carl McHugh, but they couldn't capitalize.
In the second half, Bengaluru FC intensified their efforts, with Namgyal Bhutia's powerful volley blocked and a late attempt from Javi Hernandez thwarted by Jay Gupta's resilient defense. FC Goa, however, maintained their threat, with Rodriguez setting up Rowllin Borges, who failed to convert the chance.
Both teams made strategic substitutions, but the deadlock persisted. A late scare came for Bengaluru when Rodriguez prepared to shoot, only for Roshan Singh's timely tackle to deny the visitors a last-minute victory.
The draw sees FC Goa at the top of the table with 10 points, though ATK Mohun Bagan closely trail. Bengaluru FC, with four points, remain in the ninth position. The match showcased determined efforts from both sides, resulting in a hard-fought, well-deserved point for each team.
On that note let's look at the player ratings for Bengaluru FC.
Player ratings - Bengaluru FC
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (Goalkeeper) - 9/10:
Sandhu's exceptional game showcased his goalkeeping prowess as he made seven crucial saves and displayed immense improvement in his skills between the sticks. His efforts were instrumental in maintaining a clean sheet for Bengaluru FC.
Roshan Singh (Defender) - 7/10:
Roshan demonstrated defensive solidity with two tackles, six clearances, and one crucial interaction. Additionally, his contribution to the attack with four crosses was noteworthy, showcasing his versatility.
Slavko Damjanovic (Defender) - 8/10:
Damjanovic played a pivotal role in the defense, ensuring the clean sheet with two tackles, six clearances, and two interceptions. His consistent performance at the back was commendable.
Jovanovic (Defender) - 6/10:
Jovanovic had an average game with one tackle, one clearance, and one interception. While his contributions were limited, he played a role in maintaining defensive stability.
N Bhutia (Defender) - 7/10:
Bhutia had a good game, making one tackle, two clearances, and one interception. His defensive contributions were valuable in keeping the opposition at bay.
Suresh Wangjam (Midfielder) - 6/10:
Suresh's performance was below par compared to his previous standards. He managed one tackle and two interceptions but needs to improve his involvement in attacking transitions to make a more significant impact.
Keziah Veendorp (Midfielder) - 6/10:
Veendorp's game was decent, creating one chance, although he fell short of expectations. His performance hinted at potential, but he needs to step up to meet the team's requirements.
Rohit Danu (Midfielder) - 7/10:
Danu controlled the midfield tempo effectively with three tackles and a chance created. His contributions were vital in dictating the pace of the game.
Javi Hernandez (Midfielder) - 8/10:
Hernandez had a good game anchoring the midfield, displaying precise passes and creating scoring opportunities. His ability to control the game was evident, making him a key player in the team's setup.
Halicharan Narzary (Forward) - 7/10:
Narzary showcased determination with good pressing and runs in the final third. Although he couldn't capitalize on the big chances, his efforts were notable in the attacking third.
Sunil Chhetri (Forward) - 7/10:
Chhetri had a solid game, making impactful runs and creating opportunities. While he couldn't convert chances, his presence and efforts were valuable for the team.
Substitutes:
Ryan Dale Williams - 6.5:
Williams injected energy into the game during his 20-minute stint. Although he made the attacking channel more active in the dying minutes, he couldn't meet fans' high expectations in creating significant goal-scoring chances.
Curtis Main - 6/10:
Curtis Main, playing alongside Chhetri, tried to step up and create more goal-scoring opportunities for Benagluru FC, but couldn't capitalize.
Siva Sakthi - 6/10:
Siva Sakthi made a respectable impact in his 10-minute spell, showcasing good runs, ground duels won, and decent passing accuracy. His contributions, albeit brief, were positive for the team.
