Goa, April 6, 2025 – In a breathtaking second-leg semifinal at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, veteran Indian forward Sunil Chhetri delivered once again when it mattered the most. His last-gasp header in stoppage time sealed Bengaluru FC’s spot in the ISL 2024-25 final, edging out FC Goa by a 3-2 aggregate margin despite a 2-1 defeat on the night.
With the game deadlocked at 2-2 on aggregate and heading towards extra time, Chhetri connected with Namgyal Bhutia’s deep cross in the dying moments to score his 14th goal of the season, equalling his personal best in a single ISL campaign. The strike not only broke FC Goa’s hearts but reaffirmed Chhetri’s legendary status as India’s top domestic scorer.
Goa Fight Back, But Chhetri Has the Last Word
Coming into the second leg trailing 2-0, FC Goa had no option but to go full throttle. Borja Herrera and Armando Sadiku responded with goals that erased the first-leg deficit and brought the tie to level terms.
The Gaurs dominated large parts of the match, pushing Bengaluru on the back foot, with early controversies including a yellow card for Iker Guarrotxena over simulation when FC Goa appealed for a penalty.
Despite that, Goa struck early in the second half as Borja scored a sensational free-kick in the 49th minute. Sadiku followed up with a clinical header in the 78th minute, leveling the aggregate score and electrifying the Fatorda Stadium.
But as extra-time loomed, it was Sunil Chhetri, the ever-reliable captain of Indian football, who rose above all—both literally and metaphorically—to deliver the killer blow.
Historic Feat for the Captain
- 14 Goals in ISL 2024-25 – equals Chhetri’s personal best tally in a single season
- 5 Goals against FC Goa – becomes the top scorer in this fixture
- 3rd ISL Final Appearance for Bengaluru FC under Chhetri’s leadership
The diving header, placed perfectly past Goa goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari, came in the 93rd minute, silencing the raucous home crowd and sending Bengaluru’s bench into euphoria.
Chhetri’s Impact: Beyond Just Goals
Chhetri’s influence extended beyond the scoresheet. His leadership, calmness under pressure, and positioning proved vital in a high-intensity clash. Having come off the bench, he showed once again why he’s India’s most clutch performer.
Goa’s Gallant Exit
Despite their valiant effort and dominant stretches in both legs, Manolo Marquez’s side couldn’t overcome the two-goal deficit from the first match. Notable performances from Dejan Drazic, Boris Singh, and Odei Onaindia kept them in the contest, but lapses at crucial moments cost them dearly.
This is FC Goa’s second semifinal heartbreak in three seasons, as they continue their search for ISL silverware.
Match Highlights
- Early Drama: Iker Guarrotxena denied a penalty, booked for simulation
- Bengaluru Close Calls: Bheke and Diaz come close in the first half
- Goa’s Comeback: Borja (49’), Sadiku (78’) bring parity
- Heroic Finish: Chhetri scores 93rd-minute winner to seal 3-2 aggregate win
Road to the Final
With this victory, Bengaluru FC now advance to their third ISL final, where they will face the winner of the other semifinal between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Jamshedpur FC on April 12.
What’s Next for Chhetri?
The 39-year-old striker has been in top form throughout the season and is currently India’s top goalscorer in the 2024-25 ISL campaign. His goal-scoring consistency, leadership, and hunger to win continue to set benchmarks for aspiring Indian footballers.
Post-Match Reaction
“Sunil has done this time and again. He’s a legend for a reason,” – Bengaluru FC coach Simon Grayson
“We had our moments, but that late goal was a dagger. Still proud of my boys,” – FC Goa coach Manolo Marquez
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