I-League 2024-25: Namdhari FC Triumphs 2-1 Over Struggling SC Bengaluru

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Namdhari FC claims their ninth win of the season.
- Akashdeep Singh opened the scoring for Namdhari.
- Francis Addo doubled the lead late in the game.
- Clarence Fernandes scored for Bengaluru, but it was not enough.
- Namdhari remains sixth in the standings, while Bengaluru is in the relegation zone.
Ludhiana, March 30 (NationPress) Namdhari FC secured their ninth victory in the I-League 2024-25 season by overcoming the relegation-threatened SC Bengaluru with a score of 2-1 at the Namdhari Stadium on Sunday.
Akashdeep Singh (28') gave Namdhari an early advantage in the first half, followed by Francis Addo (85') who extended the lead. Clarence Fernandes (90') managed to score for Bengaluru late in the match, but it was too late for a comeback.
Namdhari holds the sixth position in the I-League 2024-25 standings with 32 points from 21 games, while SC Bengaluru remains in the relegation zone, accumulating 20 points from the same number of matches. They are tied on points with Aizawl FC, who have a superior head-to-head record.
Despite SC Bengaluru needing to play with more urgency, it was Namdhari FC who created the early opportunities. Approaching the half-hour mark, Cledson delivered a cross into the box that Akashdeep expertly headed in to score.
The second half saw Cledson with more chances as the match opened up. Bengaluru emerged with a strong desire to score the equaliser after halftime, but Namdhari gradually took control.
An unmarked Manvir misfired a shot near the penalty spot, and substitute Karandeep had a one-on-one attempt saved. Bengaluru also created chances, with Clarence narrowly missing a header from a Thomyo Shimray cross, while substitute Henry Kisekka's free header was denied. Additionally, Faslurahman Methukayil's long-range attempt struck the Namdhari crossbar before being cleared.
In the end, both teams benefited from long throws, resulting in Addo and Clarence each scoring a goal for their respective teams.