ISL 2024-25: Evergreen Chhetri’s hattrick powers Bengaluru FC to 4-2 win against Kerala Blasters
ISL 2024-25: Evergreen Chhetri’s hattrick powers Bengaluru FC to 4-2 win against Kerala Blasters
Sunil Chhetri justified his place in the Bengaluru FC starting lineup with a hattrick against Kerala Blasters FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 match at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium here on Saturday.
The 40-year-old Chhetri, who came off the bench in the last few outings, displayed incredible skill, composure and boundless energy to power BFC to a 4-2 victory. The sight of Chhetri scurrying to cut short KBFC’s attacking moves deep into injury time was a testament to the stalwart’s insatiable desire to win.
BFC moved to the top of the points table (23 points), three ahead of nearest rival Mohun Bagan. KBFC, despite a lion-hearted showing, fell to a fourth loss in its last five outings.
The packed house was treated to a high-quality outing, with both teams unwilling to give an inch. The scoring began with a stronger header from Chhetri, who rose above his marker Sandeep Singh to put BFC ahead.
BFC’s lead doubled in the 38th minute, when a clean left-footed strike from Australian Ryan Williams nestled into the top corner.
KBFC entered the second half with fire in the belly. Spanish forward Jesus Jimenez made inspired runs, giving hope to the massive contingent of away supporters at the venue. Jimenez finally broke through in the 56th minute, slotting it home from close range.
The home faithful was stunned into silence when Freddy Lallawmawma’s header brought KBFC level at 2-2.
BFC brought on Jorge Diaz, who had an immediate impact. Diaz cut through the defence and found an unmarked Chhetri. The veteran forward needed no second invitation to score, giving BFC the lead once again.
In injury time, Chhetri put the game to bed with a goal from close range to become the oldest player to score a hattrick in the history of the league. After this incredible showing, it will take a brave coach to relegate this evergreen star back to the bench.
