Bengaluru FC vs Kerala Blasters, Durand Cup 2024: Sunil Chhetri and Co. qualify for semi-final with narrow 1-0 win

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In a tense and fiercely contested Durand Cup 2024 quarter-final, Bengaluru FC secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Kerala Blasters FC, advancing to the semi-finals where they will face Mohun Bagan SG.

The match, held on August 23, 2024, was marked by Bengaluru's relentless pressure and Kerala's resolute defense, with the decisive moment coming deep into stoppage time.

Bengaluru FC started the game with intent, controlling possession and creating early chances, primarily through their dynamic forward, Pereyra Diaz. Kerala Blasters, however, were not without opportunities, with Peprah and Luna attempting to break through Bengaluru's defensive lines.

The first half ended goalless, with Bengaluru having 64% of the possession and six shots, but only one on target, while Kerala managed five shots with two on target. The second half saw Bengaluru continue to dominate possession, but Kerala's defense, led by Sachin under the bar, stood firm.

Diaz was a constant threat, coming close on several occasions, but the breakthrough eluded Bengaluru as the clock ticked down. Kerala, despite their best efforts, struggled to create meaningful chances in the latter stages of the game, with their attacks often fizzling out before they could threaten the Bengaluru goal.

As the match entered stoppage time, it seemed destined for a penalty shootout. However, Bengaluru's persistence finally paid off in the 94th minute. Following a chaotic sequence in the Kerala box, Kerala conceded a free-kick just 20 meters from goal.

Sunil Chhetri, who had been brought on as a substitute to provide a spark, stepped up to take the kick but struck the wall. The ball went out for a corner, which was taken quickly. Chhetri managed to direct the ball towards Diaz, who slotted it home to give Bengaluru a last-gasp victory.

Bengaluru's dominance in the match was reflected in the final statistics, with 62% possession, 16 shots, and five on target, compared to Kerala's 38% possession and eight shots, three of which were on target.

The victory highlighted Bengaluru's resilience and ability to find a way to win even when a match seemed destined for a draw. With this hard-fought win, Bengaluru FC progresses to the semi-finals, where they will face Mohun Bagan SG in what promises to be another thrilling encounter.