Last-Gasp Drama: Vinith Rescues Point for Bengaluru FC in ISL Thriller
Vinith Venkatesh scores a dramatic 93rd-minute equaliser to secure a 1-1 draw for Bengaluru FC against NorthEast United FC in the ISL.
In a match defined by late-game tension, Bengaluru FC vs NorthEast United ended in a dramatic 1-1 stalemate at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati. A stunning 93rd-minute strike from substitute Vinith Venkatesh ensured the visitors escaped with a point after trailing for the majority of the encounter.
Early Exchanges and the Breakthrough
The match began with Bengaluru FC asserting their dominance. The "Blues" created several early opportunities, with Ashique Kuruniyan narrowly missing the mark after a setup by Borja Martínez. Ricky Meetei also had a chance to open the scoring, sending a shot over the crossbar following a precise cross from Ryan Williams.
However, the hosts, NorthEast United FC, remained dangerous. Alaaeddine Ajaraie tested the Bengaluru defense with a powerful shot from outside the box, which was expertly saved by goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 15th minute. During a swift counter-attack, Gonzalez provided the assist for Jithin MS, who slotted a clinical left-footed shot into the bottom-left corner, giving the Highlanders a 1-0 lead.
Battle of the Goalkeepers
Bengaluru FC fought hard to get back into the game. Borja Martínez was a constant threat, testing the NorthEast custodian from the left side of the box, while Ashique Kuruniyan saw a close-range header fly wide.
At the other end, NorthEast United looked to double their advantage. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu was called into action multiple times, while the Bengaluru keeper, Gurmeet Singh, made crucial saves to deny Soham Varshneya and Borja, keeping the deficit at one goal heading into the break.
Injury Woes and Tactical Shifts
The second half intensified as both teams struggled with injuries. Bengaluru FC lost Shivaldo Singh, who was replaced by Sandro Embalo. Similarly, NorthEast United had to make changes, with Parthib Gogoi replacing Jithin and Redeem Tlang coming on for Macarton Nickson.
Despite the disruptions, NorthEast United continued to press. Ethyan had an effort blocked after being set up by Ajaraie, and Abdul Rabeeh attempted a long-range shot that was also deflected. Bengaluru continued their pursuit, but efforts from Ryan Williams and Varshneya failed to find the net.
The Chhetri Effect and a Final Twist
In a bid to find an equaliser, Bengaluru FC introduced the legendary Sunil Chhetri and Suresh Wangjam. While Chhetri initially missed a chance from inside the box following a Borja cross, and Manuel Iriondo headed wide from a corner, the pressure remained relentless.
As the match entered five minutes of added time, the tension peaked. Vinith Venkatesh initially missed a chance set up by Monirul Molla, but the midfielder would not be denied for long.
Deep into stoppage time, a clash between goalkeeper Gurmeet and Eneko Satrustegui resulted in a spilled ball. Sunil Chhetri pounced on the opportunity, delivering a precise pass to Vinith inside the area. Vinith made no mistake, firing the ball into the bottom-left corner to make it 1-1, snatching a draw for Bengaluru FC in the final moments of the game.