Kerala Blasters FC players celebrate beating Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League. | Photo Credit: J. ALLEN EGENUSE

A crowd in excess of 21000, mostly comprising Bengaluru FC (BFC) fans, was left stunned at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday as Kerala Blasters (KBFC) handed the host a 2-1 defeat, only the latter’s second this Indian Super League season.

Bengaluru went ahead through an own goal in the 27th minute but played 65 minutes of regulation time with 10 men as midfielder Braian Sanchez was sent off for violent conduct.

Blasters took full advantage, with goals from Victor Bertomeu and Francisco Abalo earning the visitor only its first victory of the campaign (four points, 13th position) and also marking a sweet return to the Kanteerava after a decade for coach and BFC old hand Ashley Westwood.

AS IT HAPPENED | Bengaluru FC vs Kerala Blasters Highlights

Ironically, it was BFC (14 points, fourth) which had better chances. Winger Ryan Williams came close twice, having a shot saved in the first half and shooting over from close range in the second.

The opener came after sustained pressure when Williams’ low cross from the right was turned in by defender Fallou Ndiaye before it could reach Sunil Chhetri.

But Blasters equalised when Rahul Bheke let a through ball slip past him and Bertomeu slotted home on 60 minutes.

The winner was drilled in 12 minutes from time when Abalo turned Chinglensana Singh inside out and slipped the ball through goalie Gurpreet Singh Sandhu’s legs.

Unlike in the past, the Blasters fans were not out in numbers, for they were reportedly upset at the club’s nose-diving form. The ones who turned up were shunted to a corner, rendering them voiceless. But in the end, it was the BFC faithful who were left mum.

Published on Apr 11, 2026