Mohammedan SC secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Saturday, with a late free-kick by Mirjalol Kasimov earning them their second win of the season.
Despite dominating possession and creating more chances, Bengaluru FC were left frustrated as the visitors held firm and delivered a moment of brilliance when it mattered most.
Bengaluru FC started the game on the front foot, looking to break down Mohammedan SC’s defence early on. Their first real chance came in the third minute when Alberto Noguera took a right-footed shot from inside the box after receiving a header from Rahul Bheke.
The effort was blocked, but it set the tone for the Blues' attacking intent. A few minutes later, Noguera’s cross found Jorge Pereyra Diaz, whose header flew wide of the target.
The Bengaluru FC forwards were pressing the Mohammedan SC defence, but their efforts were either thwarted by the defenders or saved by goalkeeper Padam Chhetri.
As the game progressed, Bengaluru FC continued to create opportunities, with Noguera sending in another corner kick just before half-time.
This time, Chinglensana Singh met the delivery, but his header sailed over the bar. Rahul Bheke also came close moments later when his header was saved by Chhetri, who was in fine form throughout the match.
The second half began with Mohammedan SC’s Alexis Gomez coming close to scoring in the 49th minute. His powerful shot from outside the box hit the left post, coming within inches of breaking the deadlock.
The visitors' most promising chance thus far demonstrated their ability to threaten the Bengaluru defence despite having less possession.
Bengaluru FC's attempts continued to come thick and fast, with Diaz and Noguera combining well just before the 70th minute. Noguera played a simple pass to Diaz, but the striker was unable to finish the chance, with the Mohammedan SC defence blocking the shot in time.
As the game seemed destined for a goalless draw, Mohammedan SC found their moment of glory in the 88th minute. It came from a brilliant individual effort by Mirjalol Kasimov. After Franca had drawn a foul in the attacking half, Kasimov stepped up to take the free-kick.
His precise strike with his right foot curled into the top left corner of the net, giving goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu no chance. The stunning free-kick secured all three points for Mohammedan SC, leaving Bengaluru FC with nothing to show for their efforts.
Kasimov’s performance was crucial to Mohammedan SC’s success. The midfielder completed 20 out of 26 attempted passes and was a key presence defensively, making three tackles, three interceptions, and one clearance.
His offensive contribution, including two crosses and the match-winning free-kick, earned him the title of key performer of the match.
Following the win, Mohammedan SC will look to build on this momentum when they face Chennaiyin FC on January 15. Bengaluru FC, on the other hand, will aim to bounce back when they take on Hyderabad FC on January 18.
With this victory, Mohammedan SC now have two wins, four draws, and nine losses, placing them in the second-last spot with 10 points. Bengaluru FC, despite the defeat, remain in a strong position, sitting third in the standings with eight wins, three draws, and four losses, accumulating 27 points.
The match ended with the scoreline: Bengaluru FC 0 – 1 Mohammedan SC, with Kasimov’s late heroics making the difference in what was a tightly contested encounter.
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