Shillong: Bengaluru FC secured a vital 2-0 win over NorthEast United, regaining momentum in their Indian Super League (ISL) campaign and moving up to 4th in the points table.
The Blues’ goals came from Ryan Williams (3rd minute) and Alberto Noguera (81st), at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong, Meghalaya, on Friday.
Bengaluru dominated from the start, controlling possession and creating numerous chances.
Their early pressure paid off when Williams, stepping into the centre of the box in an unusual role, received a pass from Noguera and slotted it past the keeper to give Bengaluru an early lead.
NorthEast United responded with a strong chance in the 18th minute, as Alaaeddine Ajaraie’s header from a Redeem Tlang cross was saved superbly by Bengaluru’s goalkeeper Lalthuammawia Ralte.
Tlang continued to cause problems for the Blues, delivering a pass to Phalguni Singh, whose long-range shot sailed high.
The match was evenly contested, with both teams pushing for control. Bengaluru FC created another opportunity through Noguera, but his ambitious shot missed the target.
NorthEast United’s Nestor Albiach also had a chance but was denied by a crucial save from Ralte.
The second half saw more back-and-forth action, with NorthEast United pressing forward.
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However, Bengaluru’s defense held firm, and they capitalised on a chaotic situation in the 81st minute.
Noguera reacted quickly to a loose ball in the box, hammering it into the bottom left corner to secure a second goal and seal the victory.
Bengaluru FC maintained their clean sheet and walked away with three points, marking their second consecutive win.
They now sit in 4th place with 34 points from 21 matches, while NorthEast United remain in 5th with 32 points.
