Mumbai: There is an undeniable allure in executing crosses on a football field. Often a blend of hope and precision, this maneuver thrives on teamwork—the synergy between the player delivering the ball from the wing and the teammate poised to capitalize on the opportunity in the penalty area.

Bengaluru FC has recorded the highest number of crosses in this season of the Indian Super League (ISL). In the first leg of their semi-final at Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on Wednesday, two successful crosses contributed to their 2-0 victory over FC Goa.

The initial moments of the match were cautious, yet the home team, having attempted 534 crosses before this game, appeared more menacing. The first opportunity of the match necessitated courageous defending from the FC Goa captain to maintain the scoreline.

Edgar Mendez delivered a tempting low cross aimed at Ryan Williams, but captain Odei Onaindia executed a vital diving interception.

Later, in the 42nd minute, the Bengaluru pair combined effectively to secure the opening goal. After Suresh Wangjam misfired his shot, Mendez retrieved the ball on the right wing. He then noticed Williams positioned near the FC Goa box and sent in a cross, anticipating the forward's arrival. Although Goa defender Sandesh Jhingan reached the ball first, his diving header inadvertently found its way into his net, granting the hosts the advantage.

If the initial cross was a hopeful endeavor, the subsequent one was executed with delightful precision.

Williams executed a clever one-two pass with the eventual Player of the Match, Namgyal Bhutia, on the right side. Inside the penalty area, Mendez took a few quick steps back to evade the Goa defense, positioning himself in ample space. Bhutia recognized the opportunity and delivered a low cross with his side foot, which Mendez struck on the first touch, extending the lead in the 51st minute.

The visitors began to intensify their efforts, seeking to secure something to carry into the second leg. FC Goa launched a series of relentless attacks, yet the Bengaluru FC defense remained resolute. Roshan Singh Naorem, playing left-back and arguably the more active side, displayed agility and vigilance. Bhutia applied pressure on the Goa forwards, while Rahul Bheke, who set an ISL record with 16 interceptions during the match.

“We have completed the first task; now the second half of the tie will present a greater challenge,” Bheke remarked following the match. “We understand that it will be more difficult in Goa, but we must begin with a strong mindset. We won’t dwell on these two goals; it will start at 0-0 in Goa.”

The Bengaluru squad entered the match with positive momentum, having triumphed over Mumbai City with a score of 5-0 in the playoff match on Saturday.

The strategies employed by the hosts proved effective on Wednesday. However, as Bheke noted, a new approach will be necessary for the second leg on April 6, across the state border.

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