ISL: Bengaluru FC's performance in playoffs over years

Bengaluru FC are back in the ISL playoffs after a season-long hiatus.

Since debuting in the Indian Super League (ISL) in 2017, Bengaluru FC has been one of the most consistent teams. A team known for its passionate fan base, substantial squad depth, and tactical discipline, the club has left an indelible mark on the league.

Over the years, their performances in the ISL playoffs have been a mix of highs and lows, with one title triumph, two heartbreaking final defeats, and a couple of challenging semi-final exits.  

As the Blues gear up for the upcoming 2024-25 ISL playoffs, let us deeply dive into Bengaluru FC‘s journey in the ISL playoffs over the years.

We did this together, Bengaluru. 🔵#WeAreBFC #BFCCFC pic.twitter.com/NZ7F4cGzOV

— Bengaluru FC (@bengalurufc) February 25, 2025

2017-18 ISL playoffs

The Blues made their official ISL debut during the 2017-18 campaign. The club wasted no time establishing themselves as one of the best teams in the league. 

Under the guidance of coach Albert Roca, the Blues dominated the league stage, finishing 1st in the standings with 13 wins, a draw and four losses. Led by Sunil Chhetri, the team displayed attacking football, with players like Miku, and Udanta Singh playing key roles. 

In the semi-final of the ISL playoffs, the Blues comfortably overcame FC Pune City, securing a place in the final. They were the favorites heading into the ISL 2018 Final against Chennaiyin FC at the Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru. 

Despite taking an early lead through Sunil Chhetri, the team suffered a shocking 3-2 defeat, with Chennaiyin FC producing a stunning comeback to deny Bengaluru the title in their debut season.  

ALSO READ: Oscar Bruzon bluntly blames one player as East Bengal’s ISL playoffs hope end with Bengaluru FC draw

2018-19 ISL playoffs  

After the heartbreak of the previous season, Bengaluru FC came back stronger in the following campaign. This season saw a change in leadership as they were managed by Spanish head coach Carles Cuadrat. The team once again finished 1st in the league stages, winning 10 games, drawing four and losing four games.  

Entering the semi-finals, they faced a tough challenge from NorthEast United FC but managed to secure a 2-1 aggregate victory over the two-legged contest. Bengaluru FC then set up a grand final showdown with FC Goa, a team that had been one of the best attacking sides in the league.  

The ISL 2019 Final, played at the Mumbai Football Arena, was a tight contest. With the match tied at 0-0 after 90 minutes, Bengaluru FC found a second wind in extra time. 

Defender Rahul Bheke’s looping header in the 117th minute sealed a historic victory for the Blues and helped them crown themselves as ISL champions for the first time. The maiden title was a huge morale boost up the West Block Blues and their heartbreak from the previous year.  

2019-20 ISL playoffs  

Coming off their title-winning season, expectations were high again for Bengaluru FC in the 2019-20 ISL campaign to win back-to-back titles. The team managed to finish 3rd in the league stage, securing a place in the playoffs for the third consecutive year. Over the season, they won eight times, drawn six games and lost four times.

In the semi-finals stage of the ISL playoffs, they faced a mighty ATK Mohun Bagan side, which had been one of the most dominant teams that season. Over the two-legged semi-final battle, the Blues fought hard but ultimately fell short, losing 2-3 on aggregate. 

The Blues getting knocked out marked the first time that they failed to reach the ISL final since entering the league. Despite the disappointment, Bengaluru remained a formidable force in Indian football, but the title challenge ended earlier than expected.  

2022-23 ISL playoffs

After missing out on the playoffs for two consecutive seasons (2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons), Bengaluru FC made a strong return in 2022-23, finishing 4th in the league standings. Under the stewardship of a new head coach in Simon Grayson, the team rediscovered their fighting spirit and resilience, making a remarkable run with yet another ISL Final appearance.  

The club’s playoff journey saw them overcome a challenging Kerala Blasters FC by a narrow score of 1-0 margin after extra time in the quarter final stage. In the semi final stage, the Blues scraped past a Mumbai City FC side in a thrilling semi-final battle, which saw them win 9-8 on penalties after extra time. 

The reward for all their hard work saw them set up a grand final clash against ATK Mohun Bagan. The final was an intense contest that ended once again in a dramatic penalty shootout after both teams remained deadlocked. Unfortunately for the Blues, ATK Mohun Bagan won 4-3 on penalties, handing them another heartbreak in the ISL final.  

Despite the loss, the season marked a strong comeback for Bengaluru FC, reaffirming their status as one of the most competitive teams in the league. While they failed to win their second ISL title, the club once again finds itself with an opportunity to win against after qualifying for the 2024-25 ISL playoffs. 

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