Bengaluru, Feb 15 (NationPress) The former champions Bengaluru FC launched their campaign in the Indian Super League 2025-26 with a solid victory, scoring one goal in each half from N Sivasakthi and Sunil Chhetri to secure a 2-0 win against Sporting Club Delhi in Match 5 held at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Sunday.

This victory positions the Blues as the third team, following champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant on Saturday and Jamshedpur FC earlier in the day, to win their opening matches.

The match began energetically for the hosts, with Ryan Williams and Ashique Kuruniyan both coming close to scoring in the first five minutes. Williams intercepted the ball from Babovic and took a powerful shot from outside the box that narrowly missed the post. Moments later, Nikhil Poojary delivered a precise cross to Ashique, but SC Delhi’s goalkeeper Vishal Yadav was quick to intervene.

As the game progressed, Delhi settled in and made it challenging for Bengaluru to create scoring opportunities with their solid defense. While Bengaluru maintained possession, they struggled to test Yadav effectively. Aimen showcased his skills during his attempts but lacked finishing touch.

In the final moments of the first half, Augustine Lalrocchana tested Gurpreet with a low shot after receiving a brilliant pass from Azhar, but Gurpreet made a crucial save, directing the ball for a corner.

Bengaluru finally broke through SC Delhi’s defense just before halftime. Roshan sent a ball from the midfield to Poojary, who then assisted Sivasakthi with a cushioned header, allowing the forward to easily tap the ball past the keeper.

In the second half, the Blues intensified their attack. Braian Sánchez made a clever turn to shoot from the edge of the box, but Yadav managed another good save to keep the score at 1-0. Sánchez continued to be a key player, although his next attempt went wide.

The home team dominated the second half, maintaining ball possession and keeping the SC Delhi defense alert. Meanwhile, Gurpreet had little to do as his defenders efficiently dealt with threats. The visitors pressed for an equalizer with set-pieces, including a free kick that almost connected with Alan Saji but went off target.

Bengaluru extended their lead with a second goal from Chhetri. On a swift counter-attack, Vinith Venkatesh found Chhetri unmarked, and despite Vishal Yadav rushing out to clear, Chhetri cleverly flicked the ball into an open net from 30 yards, hitting the post before sealing the deal. Nikhil Poojary was awarded the Player of the Match.