In a tightly contested Indian Super League clash, a moment of sheer brilliance from Liston Colaco propelled Mohun Bagan to a vital 1-0 victory over Bengaluru FC. The stunning second half volley extended the Mariners’ lead atop the ISL table to seven points and prolonged Bengaluru’s winless start to the new year.
Cagey First Half at Salt Lake Stadium
Both sides struggled to create clear-cut chances in a cagey opening 45 minutes at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. The best opportunity fell to Bengaluru talisman Sunil Chhetri just before the break. The Indian legend combined well with Alberto Noguera but dragged his shot agonizingly wide when through on goal.
Liston Lights Up the Second Half
With the game seemingly drifting towards a goalless stalemate, up stepped Liston Colaco with a strike that will live long in ISL folklore. A speculative cross was cleared to the edge of the area, where the 25-year-old met it with a first-time volley that arrowed into the top corner. Bengaluru keeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu could only watch on helplessly as the net bulged.
As soon as it left my boot, I knew it was in. To score a goal like that, in front of these incredible fans, is a dream come true.
Liston Colaco, Mohun Bagan match-winner
Bengaluru’s Late Rally Falls Short
Stung into action, Bengaluru pressed forward in search of a late leveller. Their best chance came deep into stoppage time, but Rahul Bheke could only head over from point-blank range. It was a golden opportunity spurned, and with it went the Blues’ hopes of salvaging a point.
Bagan March On, Bengaluru in Freefall
The narrow victory extends Mohun Bagan’s winning run to three games and tightens their grip on top spot. Juan Ferrando’s men look like the team to beat as they chase a second straight ISL shield.
For Bengaluru, the defeat stretches their winless run to five and leaves them languishing in 9th place. Head coach Simon Grayson has work to do to reignite their campaign and keep their playoff dreams alive.
Key Takeaways
- Mohun Bagan open up 7-point lead at ISL summit
- Bengaluru’s winless streak hits 5 games
- Liston Colaco scores early goal of the season contender
- Sunil Chhetri misses golden chance for Bengaluru
- Both teams struggle to create in cagey first half
Next up, Mohun Bagan host fellow high-flyers Mumbai City in a mouthwatering top of the table clash. Bengaluru will look to regroup before a trip to bottom side NorthEast United. But on this night in Kolkata, it was the Liston Colaco show, a display of individual brilliance that could go a long way to deciding the destination of the ISL shield.
