Durand Cup 2024 Quarter-Final: Bengaluru FC vs Kerala Blasters FC – Match Report

Bengaluru FC (BFC) 1-0 Kerala Blasters FC (KBFC)
Date: August 23, 2024
Venue: Kolkata, India

In a fiercely contested Durand Cup quarterfinal, Bengaluru FC emerged victorious with a narrow 1-0 win over Kerala Blasters FC, securing their place in the semifinals. The match, held at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, was a tactical battle that saw both teams fighting hard to gain control.

First Half:

The first half was a story of missed opportunities and solid defensive displays. Bengaluru dominated possession, holding the ball for 64% of the time, but their efforts yielded only one shot on target out of six attempts. Kerala Blasters, on the other hand, were more dangerous on the break, managing five shots with two on target, despite having only 36% possession.

Both teams had their moments, but the defenses stood tall, with Bengaluru’s Pereyra Diaz causing constant problems for the Kerala defense. His relentless pressure led to a few close calls, but the Kerala Blasters’ goalkeeper, Sachin, managed to keep the scoreline intact. The first half ended goalless, leaving the match finely poised for the second half.

Second Half:

The second half began with both teams making no immediate changes, but it was clear that Bengaluru FC had more intent. Pereyra Diaz continued to be a thorn in Kerala’s side, and his efforts were almost rewarded when he forced a corner that eventually led to the winning goal.

The turning point came in the 90+4 minute, when Sunil Chhetri, who had been brought on in the 67th minute, played a crucial role. After a chaotic sequence in the Kerala box, Bengaluru won a free kick just 20 meters from goal. Chhetri’s initial attempt was blocked, but the resulting corner fell kindly for Diaz, who slotted the ball home to give Bengaluru a 1-0 lead.

Kerala Blasters tried to respond in the dying moments, but they were unable to break through Bengaluru’s resolute defense. The match ended 1-0 in favor of Bengaluru FC, who will now look forward to the semifinals.

Key Statistics:

• Possession: BFC 62% – 38% KBFC
• Shots: BFC 16 (5 on target) – 8 KBFC (3 on target)
• Corners: BFC 7 – 5 KBFC
• Fouls: BFC 15 – 13 KBFC

Conclusion:

Bengaluru FC’s persistence paid off in the end, with their star players stepping up when it mattered most. Kerala Blasters will be disappointed with their performance, especially in the second half where they struggled to create meaningful chances. Bengaluru FC’s solid defense and tactical discipline proved too much for Kerala, who will now turn their focus to the upcoming ISL season.

Highlights – Kerala Blasters FC vs Bengaluru FC