Mumbai City FC secured their place in the playoffs of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 with a convincing 2-0 victory over Bengaluru FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on March 11, 2025. This win not only marked a significant triumph for the Islanders but also ensured Odisha FC would be left out of the playoff race, placing additional pressure and stakes on this match.
With the stakes high, Mumbai City FC entered the match needing at least one point to guarantee their playoff spot, whereas Bengaluru FC was fighting for the third spot, aiming for favorable positioning heading toward the playoffs. Unfortunately for the hosts, it was Mumbai City who showcased superior play throughout the match, dominating the gameplay and claiming victory.
Lallianzuala Chhangte opened the scoring for Mumbai City FC just eight minutes from kickoff. The Australian forward capitalized on chaos within the Bengaluru defense, converting from close range after blindingly getting behind defender Aleksandar Jovanovic during the goalmouth scramble. This early goal set the tone for the match, with Mumbai taking control from the start and relentlessly attacking the BFC backline.
Following the first goal, Bengaluru struggled to find their rhythm, and frustrations mounted as captain Sunil Chhetri and other key players like Ryan Williams tried to push the team forward. Despite their efforts, the visitors' compact defensive shape kept BFC at bay, and the hosts were unable to register any shots on target during the first half.
The situation worsened for Bengaluru FC when Nikolaos Karelis was taken down inside the box, earning Mumbai City FC a penalty kick. Karelis himself stepped up to take the spot-kick and calmly slotted the ball to the bottom right corner, doubling their lead to 2-0 just before halftime. This goal was reported as pivotal not just for the match but for the overall standings, with Mumbai City FC finishing the league season with 36 points, narrowly edging out Odisha FC, who ended on 33 points.
Throughout the remainder of the match, Bengaluru FC attempted to resurface, with several close chances developed by Chhetri and Mendez. Chhetri’s header narrowly missed reaching Mendez before the half, and in the 78th minute, Vikram Pratap Singh of Mumbai had his long-range effort tipped onto the crossbar by BFC goalkeeper Sahil, showcasing the tight margins between their eventual defeat and possible redemption.
Mumbai City maintained their pressure, handling the second half with comfort, demonstrating their commanding play over the hosts. The Islanders might have increased their lead if not for the errant shot on goal and several offsides called against them. Coach Petr Krátký’s side exhibited patience, waiting for their chances and thwarting any attempts made by Bengaluru to capitalize. Overall, Mumbai outplayed BFC, reinforcing their position as serious playoff contenders.
After the final whistle blew, the score remained 2-0 to Mumbai City FC, confirming their playoff qualification and highlighting the gap between themselves and Bengaluru FC. With this victory, Mumbai will head to face NorthEast United FC next, vying for the chance to defend their title from last season. Meanwhile, Bengaluru FC ends their league campaign with 38 points and prepares to reflect on the highs and lows of their season as they anticipate their next steps.
The confidence they will gather from meeting this formidable challenge and knowing they have the firepower to rebound is of utmost importance. The ISL continues to showcase the effort and dedication of these elite teams, and both Mumbai City and Bengaluru FC have shown their talent and spirit during this season. With playoff narratives now rearing up, fans can expect exciting matchups and thrilling football as the league heads toward its climax.