Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Bengaluru: Bengaluru FC made a stuttering start to the defence of their I-League title on Saturday when the AFC Champions League aspirants were held to a goalless draw by Dempo SC.
Buoyed by their recent 2-1 victory over the same opponents in the Federation Cup final, the Indian champions were looking to continue their winning ways domestically ahead of next month’s AFC Champions League Preliminary Round 1 clash with Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT).
However, it was not to be for Bengaluru, who saw a 44th minute penalty from skipper Sunil Chhetri (pictured receiving the Federation Cup) saved by Dempo keeper Laxmikant Kattimani, as Ashley Westwood’s side had to settle for a share of the spoils.
The defending I-League champions, who were only formed in 2013, will be looking to continue their rapid rise by taking a step closer to a place in the AFC Champions League when they take on JDT in their crucial Preliminary Round 1 clash on February 4.
The winners of the intriguing encounter between the league champions of India and Malaysia will advance to Preliminary Round 2 where they will face Bangkok Glass in Thailand six days later. China's Beijing Guoan await the victorious side in the Play-off on February 17, with a coveted place in the 2015 AFC Champions League Group Stage up for grabs.
Photo: Bengaluru FC