Bengaluru FC vs FC Goa Player Ratings: Bheke and Bhutia shine as Jhingan disappoints in ISL 2024-25 semifinal

The Blues take a 2-0 advantage ahead of the second leg against the Gaurs.

Indian Super League (ISL) club Bengaluru FC played arguably a ‘perfect’ game as they defended their home advantage with a 2-0 win over FC Goa. Gerard Zaragoza’s men were just a class above Manolo Marquez’s men as they now travel to Goa with a cushion.

The game also marked the first time Zaragoza defeated his fellow Spaniard in a head-to-head contest. A morale boosting win for Bengaluru FC which was possible courtesy of goals from Edgar Mendez and an own goal by FC Goa’s Sandesh Jhingan.

Here are the player ratings from the first leg encounter:

Bengaluru FC (By: Anuj T)

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu- 6.5

A solid night in goal for Gurpreet as FC Goa struggled to create any threatening chances. Had some key collections and cleared any dangers in defense. A relatively easier outing than games before against the Gaurs.

Namgyal Bhutia- 7.5

Bhutia was again impressive at RB, despite not playing a lot of football under Marquez this season, the youngster has shown his quality in the Blues shirt. He also showcased his ability to make marauding runs from RB, as he set up Mendez for Bengaluru’s insurance second goal.

Rahul Bheke- 7

Bheke was a rock at the back for his side, as he played a key role in keeping Iker Guarrotxena quiet in FC Goa’s attack. He was a solid presence as he warded away any aerial threats and made crucial blocks with his body on the line.

Chinglesana Singh- 6

Sana had a relatively uneventful night at the back and had good communication and partnership with Bheke. A morale boosting win and performance in defense.

Naorem Roshan Singh- 6.5

Roshan was once again tireless against FC Goa and played a key role in keeping Udanta quiet on the right.

Pedro Capo- 7

Capo was essential in the heart of midfield for the Blues as he marshalled the opponents well and warded away any dangers.

Suresh Singh Wangjam- 7

Suresh was once again a key player as he partnered with Capo and won his share of tackles and aerial duels for the Blues.

Antonio Noguera- 8

The Spaniard again showed his class for the Blues in attacking midfield. Twisting and turning he left his markers chasing shadows. He was influential in finding his teammates in space and supplying the passes with accuracy.

Ryan Williams- 7.5

Williams was the man for the Blues against FC Goa. He exploited the lack of match sharpness and stretched the Gaurs’ defensive line time and again. His industry helped create space for the Blues attackers, however, picked up a silly yellow card for dissent.

Edgar Mendez- 8

A man of the match performance from Mendez in possibly one of the biggest games of Bengaluru FC‘s season. The Spaniard was crucial in forcing the error from Sandesh Jhingan for the first goal, putting the ball in a dangerous area, which the Gaurs defender couldn’t help but attempt to clear. He then converted the second goal for his side which gave Bengaluru the insurance.

Sivasakthi Narayanan- 7

Sivasakthi was not able to get any clear-cut goal-scoring chances on the right. However, the winger was full of energy as he took the game to the opponents. He also showed a lot of defensive discipline and covered his tracks effectively.

Substitutes:

Sunil Chhetri- 5.5

Was not able to get his goal. But a rare substitute appearance where he was not influential.

Jorge Pereyra Diaz- 5.5

Came on as a substitute but didn’t leave a notable mark on the game.

Lalremtluanga Fanai- N/A

Harsh Patre- N/A

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FC Goa (By: Preeti)

Hrithik Tiwari (GK) – 6.5

Hrithik Tiwari’s efforts, which included 4 notable saves, were ultimately overshadowed by a crucial mistake at the 49th minute and the two goals he conceded.

Akash Sangwan – 7

Akash Sangwan’s defensive performance reached the expectations. Despite being a defender he helped the team in terms of attacking support and was trying to involve in creating opportunities while balancing defensive duties.

Sandesh Jhingan – 6

Sandesh Jhingan experienced a mixed bag tonight. While he was unfortunately responsible for the own goal, his vital clearance in the 49th minute prevented a goal for the opposition. For a player of Sandesh Jhingan’s experience and importance to the team, his defensive performance was surprisingly lacking

Odei Onaindia – 6.5

Odei held the defense with five crucial clearances and one interception, demonstrating his defensive skills. His leadership as captain was also evident,as he was guiding the team throughout the match.

Boris Singh Thangjam – 6

Boris Singh struggled to make a significant impact at left back, delivering an average performance. He also created a couple of chances which were saved by the keeper.

Sahil Tavora – 6.5

Sahil Tavora’s performance in the defensive midfield was okay. He focused on breaking up play and providing cover, fulfilling his defensive responsibilities

Carl McHugh – 7

Carl McHugh was a creative force throughout the match, consistently creating opportunities. Despite receiving a yellow card, he maintained his high level of performance and continued to influence the game.

Udanta Singh – 7

Udanta’s pace was a constant threat, creating many opportunities throughout the match. However, he struggled to convert those chances into goals and his eight duels won highlighted his physical presence on the pitch. He also had one clearance. Overall Udanta had a well rounded game.

Borja Herrera – 6

Borja Herrera’s set-piece delivery was good though he wasn’t able to score. He contributed to the attack with two shots and created chances, and was sent off in the 66th minute.

Brison Fernandes – 6

Brison Fernandes’s dribbling was a key asset, allowing him to create space and chances, which resulted in two shots on goal. Despite his attacking contributions, he was sent off in the 66th minute

Iker Guarrotxena – 6.5

Iker was a constant threat to the Bengaluru’s defense, his creativity helping him find the space that allowed him to generate four shots. While his attacking involvement was undeniable, his inability to convert these chances ultimately influenced the final scoreline

Substitutions:

Ayush Chhetri – 6.5

Ayush’s introduction in the 66th minute injected immediate energy into the attack. He wasted no time, quickly creating chances and even registered a shot.

Dejan Drazic – 6.5

Dejan Drazic, coming on in the 66th minute, attempted to improve the attack and create opportunities, however, the BFC defense effectively stopped his efforts. He still managed to get two shots to his name.

Armando Sadiku – NA

Given the limited time he was on the pitch, Sadiku’s impact was minimal. He did well, but didn’t have enough time to make a significant contribution.

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