(Football news) Hyderabad FC consolidated their lead at the top of the Indian Super League table after defeating Bengaluru FC 2-1 at the Athletic Stadium in Bambolim. Sunil Chhetri made history by becoming the league’s all-time top scorer with 50 goals but the landmark achievement was in vain as his side dropped three points. With this result, Hyderabad FC have 29 points from 16 games while Bengaluru remain in third place with 23 points from 16 matches.

Both teams started off strongly, looking to cancel each other out and prevent goalscoring opportunities. The Nizams managed to get an early lead when Ogbeche whipped in a cross from the left flank only for Javier Siviero to score past Gurpreet Singh Sandhu in the 16th minute. The goalkeeper managed to get his hand on the ball but couldn’t prevent it from going into the back of the net.

If that wasn’t all, Hyderabad FC continued to push for a second goal and were rewarded at the half hour mark with a perfect training ground move. Souvick Chakraborty and Joao Victor combine from a free-kick combined for a freekick with the 33 year old Brazilian firing a low shot in the bottom right corner in the 30th minute. 

Bengaluru FC tried to get back in the game, especially in the second half but couldn’t deliver in the final third while Hyderabad FC defended resolutely. Three minutes before full time, Bengaluru FC managed to get a consolation goal through Sunil Chhetri who became the league’s all time top scorer with his 50th goal. Cleiton Silva fed Udanta on the right flank and the latter whipped in a cross for Chhetri to convert in the 87th minute.

Bengaluru FC will next face NorthEast United on Friday, 18th February at Fatorda Stadium while Hyderabad FC will take on FC Goa on Saturday, 19th February at the GMC Athletic Stadium.

Also read: Ahmed Jahouh signs new one-year contract with Mumbai City FC