Bengaluru FC began their ISL-13 campaign with a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over Sporting Club Delhi at Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday, with Menno Koch scoring an 89th-minute winner.
Bengaluru FC started on the front foot, pressing high and using the pace of their wide players, Ryan Williams and Ashique Kuruniyan, to trouble the SC Delhi defence.
Their attacking intent paid off in the 22nd minute when debutant Borja Martínez opened the scoring with a left-footed strike from outside the box, finding the bottom-left corner after being set up by Williams.
SC Delhi responded almost immediately, refusing to let the early setback disrupt their momentum.
Young midfielder Lalrinliana Hnamte played a key role in the equaliser, creating the opportunity for Rodriguinho to score with a right-footed finish from close range in the 26th minute.
The forward continued his impressive scoring form to bring SC Delhi level.
The visitors then took the lead in the 32nd minute.
Juan Pena used his pace to break into the box before delivering a dangerous cross that Bengaluru FC defender Menno Koch inadvertently turned into his own net, giving SC Delhi a 2-1 advantage heading into the break.
Bengaluru FC eventually found their breakthrough in the 75th minute, with Martínez scoring his second goal.
The Spaniard produced another composed left-footed finish from the left side of the box, directing the ball into the centre of the goal to make it 2-2.
Buoyed by the equaliser, Bengaluru FC continued to push for all three points. Substitute midfielder Soham Varshneya injected energy into the attack and created opportunities for the hosts.
In Margao, FC Goa and Chennaiyin FC played out a 1-1 draw.
Irfan Yadwad gave Chennaiyin FC the lead in the 64th minute before Spaniard Chiki’s equaliser in the 75th ensured one point for the hosts.