ISL 2024-25 : Bengaluru FC's road to final

Bengaluru FC battled through the season to secure their place in the ISL Final showdown.

Bengaluru FC’s return to the Indian Super League final is a compelling story of redemption. After failing to make the top six in the previous season, the Blues faced a mid-season period of difficulties. However, they displayed remarkable character to turn their fortunes around and ended up in a well-deserved spot in the ISL final

Bengaluru FC’s journey through this Indian Super League season has been anything but predictable, resembling a thrilling rollercoaster. They began their campaign well, showing their potential as genuine contenders for the cup.

ಒಟ್ಟಿಗೆ ಇದ್ದರೆ ನಮಗೆ ಯಾವುದೂ ಅಸಾಧ್ಯವಲ್ಲ! 🔵All to play for in the #ISLFinal against the Mariners on Saturday. Let’s do this together, Bengaluru! ⚔️#WeAreBFC #MBSGBFC #ಒಟ್ಟಿಗೆ #Ottige pic.twitter.com/OuJnwcWe09

— Bengaluru FC (@bengalurufc) April 10, 2025

Their initial performances were commanding, characterized by a strong defensive structure and anbedge in attack. However, their season experienced an unforeseen slump that cast doubt on their aspirations of reaching the playoffs.

Yet, demonstrating unwavering determination and a fighting spirit, Bengaluru FC rediscovered their winning formula at a crucial stage, climbing a late but impressive surge up the table to ultimately secure a well-deserved place within the top six.

Bengaluru FC’s dominant start

From the very first whistle of the season, Bengaluru FC showcased their serious intentions, launching their campaign with a perfect start. They secured victories in five of their initial six encounters, a streak that moved them to the top position in the league standings.

During this dominant phase, their attacking unit was in an impressive form, finding the back of the net eleven times in just six games, while their defensive line stood firm and resolute and conceded just once.

The football on display from the Blues during this period was captivating, which had the perfect blend of a strong defensive organization with fluid and dynamic attacking play. The atmosphere at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium was filled with excitement, as the passionate West Block Blues had every reason to believe that their team was prepared to face any serious challenge in this season.

However, the unpredictable nature of football soon presented itself to Bengaluru FC, who now faced a stark contrast to their stellar beginning. They managed only three wins in their next thirteen games as their defense and momentum faltered.

Their previously unbreakable defense showed signs of vulnerability, conceding goals at crucial moment . The arrival of the new year did little to change their struggles, with four losses in their opening five matches of 2025 pushing their once-promising playoff aspirations to the brink.

The struggling second half of the season

Seemingly on the verge of another disappointing campaign, Bengaluru FC, under the guidance of Gerard Zaragoza, had a stunning comeback. After a setback in the form of a home defeat to Punjab FC in early February, the team had three consecutive victories that put them back in the race for a playoff spot.

The third of these wins, a triumph over Chennaiyin FC, was not only a season double over them but also was the match that officially secured Bengaluru FC’s place in the playoffs.

After their crucial playoff-securing victories, Bengaluru FC experienced a slight dip in their form again towards the very end of the league stage. They concluded their regular season campaign without a win in their final two matches, drawing against East Bengal FC and suffering a defeat to Mumbai City FC in the closing stages.

Stellar performance in ISL Playoffs

Following their dominating 5-0 triumph over Mumbai City FC, Bengaluru FC’s semi-final clash with FC Goa was a tale of two halves. They had a comfortable lead with a 2-0 win at home. However, the away leg saw a fightback from Goa, who scored 2 goals. The tension was palpable until Sunil Chhetri’s late goal secured a narrow 3-2 aggregate victory for Bengaluru FC, booking their spot in the final

With their semi-final victory secured, Bengaluru FC’s ultimate test awaits in the form of Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League final. Fueled by an energetic spirit, the Blues will be geared up for a resolute battle, determined to seize their chance at claiming their second ISL title.

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