Bengaluru, March 30, 2025 – Bengaluru FC booked their place in the ISL 2025 semi-finals with a record-breaking 5-0 victory over Mumbai City FC in the Knockout 1 fixture on Saturday. It was a night of clinical execution, tactical discipline, and standout performances as the Blues secured their biggest-ever playoff win, according to the Indian Super League’s official website.
Head coach Gerard Zaragoza hailed the performance as one of the finest in his managerial career while urging his players to stay grounded and focused ahead of their next challenge – a semi-final showdown with FC Goa.
Key Highlights:
Goals Galore as BFC Dominate
The match saw Bengaluru FC take full control from the first whistle:
- Suresh Singh Wangjam opened the scoring
- Edgar Mendez added a second before half-time
- Ryan Williams, Sunil Chhetri, and Jorge Pereyra Diaz completed the rout in the second half
This emphatic win marked Bengaluru’s first victory over Mumbai City FC this season, having previously drawn once and lost once to the Islanders.
Zaragoza’s Tactical Brilliance
Zaragoza shared insight into his tactical setup that neutralized Mumbai’s strengths and created spaces for his attackers:
“We referred to this 4-4-3 diamond to control the middle, with Vinith and Suresh helping the full-backs. We created spaces for runners like Ryan and Edgar,” Zaragoza explained in the post-match press conference.
The coach made key mid-game adjustments as well. When Mumbai City shifted to a 3-4-3 formation, Sunil Chhetri was introduced, and Bengaluru responded by switching to a 4-3-3, allowing greater fluidity in attack.
Suresh Wangjam Shines Bright
Suresh Singh Wangjam was awarded Player of the Match for his complete performance. Not only did he score and assist, but his pressing and defensive work were instrumental in maintaining the clean sheet.
“Suresh is top. He’ll always play in my team. He does everything – the pressing, the movement, the support behind Sunil – it’s amazing,” Zaragoza said.
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu’s Silent Heroics
Goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu was another unsung hero on the night, making five crucial saves to deny Mumbai City any chance of a comeback.
“Gurpreet didn’t receive the national team call-up, but he turned that into motivation. He was brilliant,” Zaragoza noted, crediting his mental strength and leadership.
Zaragoza Demands More Ahead of Semi-Final
While the coach acknowledged the victory as one of his proudest moments, he reminded fans and players alike that the journey is far from over.
“This is on top, but I want more. We have two matches now – it’s all or nothing. I want the fans to come and push with us. If we want to play the final, we need to pass the test at Kanteerava.”
Match Stats Recap
- Scoreline: Bengaluru FC 5-0 Mumbai City FC
- Goals: Wangjam (1), Mendez (1), Williams (1), Chhetri (1), Diaz (1)
- Clean Sheet: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (5 saves)
- Man of the Match: Suresh Singh Wangjam
With just a few days to recover, Bengaluru FC will now face FC Goa in the first leg of the semi-final on Wednesday, with everything on the line.
The Hindustan Herald Is Your Source For The Latest In Business, Entertainment, Lifestyle, Breaking News, And Other News. Please Follow Us On Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, And LinkedIn To Receive Instantaneous Updates. Also Don’t Forget To Subscribe Our Telegram Channel @hindustanherald