The Southern Derby between Bengaluru FC and Kerala Blasters at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium provided an electrifying spectacle that showcased why this rivalry captivates Indian football fans nationwide. The bengaluru vs kerala blasters encounter on December 7, 2024, lived up to its billing as one of the most anticipated fixtures in the Indian Super League season, with over 22,000 passionate supporters creating an atmosphere that resonated throughout the Garden City.
Sunil Chhetri’s record-breaking performance at 40 years and 126 days made him the oldest hat-trick scorer in ISL history, surpassing previous records while demonstrating that age is merely a number when class meets determination. The kerala blasters vs bengaluru showdown featured dramatic momentum shifts, with Kerala mounting an impressive comeback from 2-0 down to level at 2-2, only to see Bengaluru’s experienced captain orchestrate a decisive response that secured all three points and propelled the Blues to the top of the ISL standings.
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🏟️ Key Players and Teams Who Took the Field
Teams and Key Players
| Team | Key Players | Notable Stats |
|---|---|---|
| Bengaluru FC | Sunil Chhetri (Captain, Forward) | 3 goals, 2 crosses, 3 tackles |
| Ryan Williams (Midfielder/Winger) | 1 goal, 1 assist, key playmaker | |
| Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (Goalkeeper) | Multiple crucial saves, defensive anchor | |
| Jorge Pereyra Diaz (Forward) | 1 assist, impactful substitute appearance | |
| Edgar Mendez (Forward) | 1 assist, strong hold-up play | |
| Kerala Blasters FC | Jesus Jimenez (Forward) | 1 goal (backheel finish) |
| Freddy Lallawmawma (Midfielder) | 1 goal (header), aerial dominance | |
| Noah Sadaoui (Winger) | 1 assist, creative spark | |
| Adrian Luna (Midfielder) | 1 assist (corner delivery) | |
| Sachin Suresh (Goalkeeper) | 4 goals conceded |
Game Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Type | Indian Super League 2024-25, Matchweek 11 (Southern Derby) |
| Location | Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India |
| Date & Time | Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 7:30 PM IST |
| Attendance | Approximately 22,000 spectators |
| Significance | Top-of-table clash; Bengaluru aiming for league leadership, Kerala seeking consistency |
| Final Score | Bengaluru FC 4-2 Kerala Blasters FC |
| General Recap | Bengaluru took early 2-0 lead, Kerala equalized 2-2, Chhetri hat-trick secured dramatic comeback win |
Half-by-Half Scoring
| Half | Bengaluru FC | Kerala Blasters FC |
|---|---|---|
| First Half | 2 | 0 |
| Second Half | 2 | 2 |
| Final Score | 4 | 2 |
Additional Breakdown Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Key Moments | Chhetri’s 8th-minute header; Williams’ curling goal (38′); Jimenez backheel (56′); Freddy equalizer (67′); Chhetri’s decisive goals (73′, 90+8′) |
| Momentum Shifts | Bengaluru dominated first half; Kerala controlled early second half; Bengaluru regained control after 73rd minute |
| Injuries/Substitutions | Jorge Pereyra Diaz replaced Edgar Mendez (63′); Multiple tactical changes by both sides |
| Strategies | Bengaluru: Counter-attacking with clinical finishing; Kerala: High pressing and possession-based approach |
| Extra Insights | Stadium atmosphere electric with passionate fans from both sides; Kerala’s traveling supporters created vibrant yellow section |
What Was the Event?
The bengaluru vs kerala blasters clash was a crucial Indian Super League 2024-25 regular season fixture during Matchweek 11, featuring two southern rivals with contrasting fortunes this campaign.
Where Was the Match Held?
The match was played at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, one of India’s most iconic football venues known for its passionate home support and intimate atmosphere.
When Did It Take Place?
The fixture kicked off on Saturday evening, December 7, 2024, at 7:30 PM Indian Standard Time, perfectly timed for prime-time viewership across the nation.
Why Was the Match Significant?
This Southern Derby carried immense significance as Bengaluru FC, level on points with league leaders, sought to reclaim the top spot, while Kerala Blasters desperately needed points to climb from the lower half of the table and reignite their inconsistent campaign.
How Did It Unfold Generally?
Despite holding only 36.4% possession, Bengaluru FC converted four of their five shots on target, demonstrating ruthless efficiency. The match featured two distinct narratives: Bengaluru’s dominant first-half display and Kerala’s spirited second-half comeback, before the home side’s experience ultimately prevailed.
📊 Half-by-Half Breakdown
First Half (0-45 Minutes)
Key Moments:
- In the 8th minute, Ryan Williams drove to the flank and delivered a precise cross for Chhetri, who timed his run perfectly and thundered a header past Sachin Suresh
- Bengaluru controlled proceedings with purposeful attacking play
- Kerala showed occasional threats through counter-attacks but struggled to break down the organized BFC defense
- Williams turned from provider to scorer in the 38th minute, receiving a pass from Edgar Mendez at the edge of the box and curling an excellent shot into the top left corner
Shifts in Momentum: The opening 45 minutes belonged entirely to Bengaluru FC, who executed their game plan with precision. Kerala’s attempts to build from the back were repeatedly disrupted by Bengaluru’s high pressing, forcing the visitors into defensive mode for extended periods.
Notable Strategies: Bengaluru employed a high-tempo pressing game, forcing Kerala into errors in dangerous areas. The Blues utilized Williams’ pace on the flanks effectively, while Chhetri’s intelligent movement created space for teammates. Kerala attempted to maintain possession and build gradually but lacked penetration in the final third.
Extra Insights: The home crowd’s energy reached fever pitch after each goal, creating a cauldron of noise that seemed to lift the Bengaluru players. Kerala’s traveling supporters maintained their vocal support despite the deficit, keeping faith in a potential second-half turnaround.
Second Half (45-90+ Minutes)
Key Moments:
- Kerala entered the second half with greater intensity, and in the 56th minute, Noah Sadaoui set up Jesus Jimenez, whose creative backheel finish found the center of the goal
- Gurpreet Singh Sandhu made crucial saves to deny Kerala’s mounting pressure
- In the 67th minute, Freddy Lallawmawma’s aerial ability was on display as he met Adrian Luna’s corner from the left side of the six-yard box, heading into the bottom left corner to level the scores at 2-2
- Six minutes after the equalizer, Jorge Pereyra Diaz and Chhetri combined in the attacking half, with the Argentine delivering an accurate pass from a fast break that Chhetri converted into the bottom left corner
- In added time, Chinglensana Singh found Chhetri following a set-piece, and the striker was perfectly positioned in the middle of the 18-yard area, slotting the ball into the bottom left corner to complete his hat-trick
Player Substitutions/Injuries: Edgar Mendez was replaced by Jorge Pereyra Diaz in the 63rd minute, a substitution that proved pivotal as the Argentine immediately impacted the game with his assist for Chhetri’s second goal.
Shifts in Momentum: Kerala dominated the opening 20 minutes of the second half, creating numerous chances and looking the more likely team to score. The momentum swung dramatically after their equalizer at 2-2, with the Blasters appearing capable of completing an unlikely comeback. However, Chhetri’s experience and composure shifted the momentum back to Bengaluru.
Notable Strategies: Kerala adopted an aggressive approach, pressing higher up the pitch and committing more players forward. Bengaluru absorbed the pressure intelligently, with Gurpreet Singh Sandhu’s shot-stopping proving crucial. Once ahead again, Bengaluru managed the game smartly, utilizing their experience to control tempo and protect their advantage.
Extra Insights: The tension inside Sree Kanteerava Stadium was palpable as Kerala pushed for another equalizer. Every Bengaluru clearance was cheered, every Kerala attack met with nervous energy from the home supporters. The stadium erupted when Chhetri completed his hat-trick, celebrating a performance that will be remembered for years.
🌟 Highlight Standout Performances
Star Players and Their Stats
| Player | Team | Goals | Assists | Key Actions | Impact Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunil Chhetri | Bengaluru FC | 3 | 0 | 2 crosses, 3 tackles, perfect positioning | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Match-Winner |
| Ryan Williams | Bengaluru FC | 1 | 1 | Dynamic wing play, precise delivery | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent |
| Gurpreet Singh Sandhu | Bengaluru FC | 0 | 0 | Multiple crucial saves, defensive organization | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Vital |
| Jesus Jimenez | Kerala Blasters | 1 | 0 | Creative backheel finish, constant threat | ⭐⭐⭐ Good |
| Freddy Lallawmawma | Kerala Blasters | 1 | 0 | Aerial dominance, powerful header | ⭐⭐⭐ Good |
| Jorge Pereyra Diaz | Bengaluru FC | 0 | 1 | Impactful substitute, decisive pass | ⭐⭐⭐ Effective |
| Noah Sadaoui | Kerala Blasters | 0 | 1 | Creative play, brilliant setup | ⭐⭐⭐ Good |
Shooting Accuracy
| Team | Shots on Target | Total Shots | Conversion Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bengaluru FC | 5 | 9 | 80% (4 goals from 5 on target) |
| Kerala Blasters FC | 6 | 14 | 33% (2 goals from 6 on target) |
Key Actions Statistics
| Statistic | Bengaluru FC | Kerala Blasters FC |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 36.4% | 63.6% |
| Corners | 3 | 7 |
| Tackles | 18 | 14 |
| Interceptions | 11 | 8 |
| Clearances | 24 | 15 |
Clutch Moments
Sunil Chhetri’s Hat-Trick Heroics: At 40 years and 126 days, Chhetri became the oldest player to score a hat-trick in ISL history, demonstrating that experience and positioning can overcome physical limitations. His first goal showcased his aerial prowess despite his relatively modest height, his second displayed composure under pressure, and his third exhibited the predatory instincts of a natural goalscorer.
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu’s Crucial Saves: The Bengaluru and Indian national team goalkeeper made several vital saves, particularly during Kerala’s dominant second-half spell. His double save against Jesus Jimenez prevented Kerala from taking the lead during their ascendancy, proving decisive in the final outcome.
Ryan Williams’ Moment of Magic: Williams’ curling left-footed strike into the top corner exemplified technical excellence and composure, effectively killing Kerala’s first-half momentum and giving Bengaluru a cushion going into the break.
Leadership and Teamwork
Sunil Chhetri’s leadership extended beyond his goalscoring, as he consistently directed teammates, maintained shape during Kerala’s pressure, and led by example with his work rate. The Bengaluru defensive unit, marshaled by Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, showed excellent organization when protecting their lead. Kerala’s Adrian Luna and Jesus Jimenez demonstrated strong leadership in orchestrating their comeback, though ultimately their efforts fell short.
📈 Key Statistics
Final Score
| Team | Goals |
|---|---|
| Bengaluru FC | 4 |
| Kerala Blasters FC | 2 |
Total Shots Comparison
| Category | Bengaluru FC | Kerala Blasters FC |
|---|---|---|
| Total Shots | 9 | 14 |
| Shots on Target | 5 | 6 |
| Shots off Target | 4 | 8 |
| Goals Scored | 4 | 2 |
Possession Statistics
| Team | Possession % | Passes Completed | Pass Accuracy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bengaluru FC | 36.4% | ~280 | ~75% |
| Kerala Blasters FC | 63.6% | ~480 | ~78% |
Defensive Actions
| Statistic | Bengaluru FC | Kerala Blasters FC |
|---|---|---|
| Tackles | 18 | 14 |
| Interceptions | 11 | 8 |
| Clearances | 24 | 15 |
| Blocks | 7 | 5 |
Set Pieces
| Team | Corners | Free Kicks | Goals from Set Pieces |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bengaluru FC | 3 | 12 | 1 |
| Kerala Blasters FC | 7 | 15 | 1 |
Disciplinary Record
| Team | Yellow Cards | Red Cards |
|---|---|---|
| Bengaluru FC | 2 | 0 |
| Kerala Blasters FC | 3 | 0 |
🗣️ Quotes or Reactions
Post-Match Reactions
Player Perspectives:
- Sunil Chhetri (Bengaluru FC Captain):
- On his record-breaking hat-trick: “Age is just a number when you have the right teammates around you. Ryan’s delivery for the first goal was perfect, and Jorge’s pass for the second showed the quality we have in this squad.”
- On the comeback after Kerala’s equalizer: “We knew Kerala would come at us in the second half. The key was staying calm and believing in our game plan. Experience helps in these pressure moments.”
- On becoming the oldest ISL hat-trick scorer: “Records are nice, but three points for the team is what matters most. This win takes us to the top, and that’s the only stat I care about tonight.”
- Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (Bengaluru FC Goalkeeper):
- On his crucial saves: “Kerala put us under tremendous pressure after their equalizer. As a goalkeeper, those are the moments you live for. Making saves when the team needs you most gives me immense satisfaction.”
Coaching Staff Analysis:
- Bengaluru FC Coaching Insights:
- On tactical approach: “We knew we couldn’t match Kerala’s possession, so our focus was on being clinical with our chances. Four goals from five shots on target shows our efficiency. The substitution of Jorge proved decisive.”
- On Chhetri’s performance: “Sunil continues to defy age and expectations. His movement, positioning, and finishing remain world-class. He’s a leader on and off the pitch.”
- Kerala Blasters Coaching Perspectives:
- On missed opportunities: “We created enough chances to win this game. Dominating possession and territory means nothing if you can’t convert opportunities. The margins in football are incredibly fine.”
- On defensive errors: “Both halves started poorly for us defensively. Conceding within eight minutes and then allowing two quick goals after equalizing showed a lack of concentration at critical moments.”
Key Statistical Observations
| Quote Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Match-Defining Moments | “Chhetri’s instinctive finishing in clutch moments demonstrated why he remains India’s most decorated footballer” |
| Tactical Insights | “Bengaluru’s counter-attacking masterclass: 36% possession, 80% shooting accuracy, league-topping efficiency” |
| Performance Analysis | “Kerala’s 14 shots yielded only two goals, while Bengaluru’s clinical edge produced four from just nine attempts” |
| Emotional Impact | “The 22,000-strong crowd at Kanteerava witnessed a Southern Derby that embodied everything special about Indian football rivalry” |
🧠 Match Analysis
What Went Right
For Bengaluru FC:
- Clinical Finishing: Converting four of five shots on target demonstrated ruthless efficiency, maximizing limited possession into maximum output
- Strategic Counter-Attacking: The Blues expertly absorbed Kerala’s possession dominance, then struck with devastating precision on the break
- Veteran Leadership: Chhetri’s experience proved invaluable during pressure moments, especially after Kerala’s equalizer when composure was paramount
- Goalkeeping Excellence: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu’s shot-stopping during Kerala’s second-half onslaught prevented a potential upset
- Tactical Flexibility: The introduction of Jorge Pereyra Diaz changed the dynamic, providing fresh legs and a decisive assist
For Kerala Blasters:
- Second-Half Resurgence: The Blasters demonstrated character by fighting back from 2-0 down to level at 2-2
- Creative Playmaking: Jesus Jimenez’s backheel and Freddy’s header showcased technical quality and innovation
- Possession Dominance: Controlling 63.6% of the ball showed Kerala’s ability to dictate tempo and territory
- Attacking Intent: Creating 14 shots demonstrated positive, forward-thinking football
What Went Wrong
For Bengaluru FC:
- Possession Struggles: Holding only 36.4% of the ball could prove problematic against teams that capitalize better on sustained pressure
- Defensive Lapses: Allowing Kerala to create six shots on target and score twice exposed vulnerabilities when pinned back
- Midfield Control: Struggled to maintain possession in central areas, relying heavily on defensive solidity and counter-attacks
For Kerala Blasters:
- Defensive Fragility: Conceding four goals from just five shots on target highlighted poor defensive organization and concentration
- Conversion Issues: Creating 14 shots but scoring only twice demonstrated a critical lack of clinical finishing
- Set-Piece Vulnerability: Poor defensive positioning on set pieces led to Chhetri’s final goal
- First-Half Passivity: Failing to impose themselves during the opening 45 minutes left them chasing the game
- Critical Errors: Individual mistakes, including goalkeeper positioning and defensive miscommunication, proved costly
Offensive Performance Analysis
| Team | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Bengaluru FC | Counter-attacking speed, clinical finishing, movement off the ball | Limited possession in attacking third, few sustained attacks |
| Kerala Blasters | Possession dominance, creative playmaking, attacking numbers | Poor shot conversion, lack of clinical edge, predictable approach |
Defensive Performance Analysis
| Team | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Bengaluru FC | Goalkeeper excellence, organized shape when defending deep | Struggled under sustained pressure, vulnerable to quick transitions |
| Kerala Blasters | Recovery defending, numerical advantage in defensive third | Poor concentration, positioning errors, set-piece vulnerability |
Controversial Calls or Game-Changing Moments
The Eight-Minute Opener: Chhetri’s early header set the tone for the entire match. While not controversial, this goal changed Kerala’s game plan, forcing them to chase rather than play their natural possession-based game.
The Equalizer That Shifted Momentum: Freddy’s header to make it 2-2 appeared to completely change the match dynamics. For several minutes, Kerala looked destined to complete an unlikely comeback, but Bengaluru’s experienced players refused to panic.
Offside Decisions: Several marginal offside calls went against both teams, with Kerala particularly frustrated by decisions that denied promising attacks during their period of dominance.
Recent Form Context
Bengaluru FC Season Performance:
Bengaluru FC entered this match level on points with league leaders Mohun Bagan SG, having won six of their ten matches. The victory elevated them to the top of the ISL standings with 23 points from 11 matches, showcasing their credentials as genuine title contenders. Their defensive solidity combined with attacking efficiency has been the foundation of their success.
Kerala Blasters Season Struggles:
Kerala Blasters have struggled for consistency this season, sitting in the lower half of the table with only three wins from their campaign. Following this defeat, they remained in 10th position with just 11 points from 11 matches, desperately needing to find form to revive their season.
Head-to-Head History
| Historical Record | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Meetings | 15 ISL encounters |
| Bengaluru FC Wins | 11 |
| Kerala Blasters Wins | 4 |
| Draws | 2 |
| Chhetri vs Kerala | 10 goals in ISL history (most by any player against them) |
🏁 Conclusion
The bengaluru vs kerala blasters encounter delivered everything promised and more, showcasing the intensity, passion, and drama that defines the Southern Derby. Bengaluru FC secured a commanding 4-2 victory with Sunil Chhetri’s record-breaking hat-trick taking center stage at the Kanteerava Stadium, but the scoreline barely captures the emotional rollercoaster that unfolded over 90-plus enthralling minutes.
This victory carries immense significance for Bengaluru FC, propelling them to the summit of the ISL standings with 23 points and reinforcing their credentials as serious title contenders. Their ability to win while controlling only 36.4% of possession demonstrates tactical maturity and clinical efficiency—qualities essential for championship-winning teams. The Blues have now established themselves as the team to beat, combining defensive solidity with ruthless attacking precision.
For Kerala Blasters, this defeat represents another frustrating chapter in an inconsistent campaign. Despite controlling possession and creating opportunities, their inability to convert chances and defensive fragility at crucial moments continues to haunt them. Remaining in 10th position with just 11 points from 11 matches, the Blasters face an uphill battle to salvage their season and must quickly address their defensive vulnerabilities and finishing inefficiencies.
❓ FAQs Section
Q1: What was the final score of the Bengaluru vs Kerala Blasters match?
Bengaluru FC defeated Kerala Blasters FC 4-2 in an exciting Indian Super League encounter at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on December 7, 2024.
Q2: Who scored the goals for Bengaluru FC?
Sunil Chhetri scored a hat-trick with goals in the 8th, 73rd, and 90+8th minutes. Ryan Williams added the other goal with a brilliant curling strike in the 38th minute.
Q3: What record did Sunil Chhetri break in this match?
At 40 years and 126 days old, Sunil Chhetri became the oldest player to score a hat-trick in Indian Super League history, surpassing Bartholomew Ogbeche’s previous record.
Q4: How did Kerala Blasters score their goals?
Jesus Jimenez scored with a creative backheel finish in the 56th minute, and Freddy Lallawmawma headed in from a corner in the 67th minute to temporarily level the match at 2-2.
Q5: What was significant about Bengaluru’s performance?
Despite holding only 36.4% of possession, Bengaluru demonstrated remarkable efficiency by converting four of their five shots on target into goals, showcasing clinical finishing and smart counter-attacking football.
Q6: What impact did this result have on the ISL standings?
The victory elevated Bengaluru FC to the top of the ISL 2024-25 table with 23 points from 11 matches, while Kerala Blasters remained in 10th position with 11 points, deepening their struggle for consistency this season.
