ISL 2025-26: Sanchez converts penalty as Bengaluru FC saves point against Odisha

Bengaluru FC were playing out a 1-1 draw against Odisha FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-2026 as Braian Sanchez’s second-half penalty canceled out Rahim Ali’s opener in a closely contested clash at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda on Monday.

Despite dominating possession for long periods, the Blues were unable to break through a determined Odisha defense and could only salvage a point. BFC remain sixth in the standings with 17 points from 11 matches, maintaining their unbeaten away record, while Odisha remains 13th with seven points from 10 matches.

BFC started on the front foot, controlling possession and probing Odisha’s backline through wingers Ryan Williams and Siva Sakthi N., but missed the finishing touch in the final third. Odisha, meanwhile, looked threatening on the counter, with Rahim Ali and Isak Vanlalruatfela testing Bengaluru’s defense at times.

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The host took the lead in the 34th minute through a quick substitution. Lalrinfela Khiangte intercepted a throw-in and released Rahim with a perfectly weighted through ball. The striker showed composure by racing into the box and finishing low into the bottom corner, past Gurpreet Singh.

Pep Munoz’s team broke through early in the second half after a tactical change. Substitute Soham Varshneya made an immediate impression, committing a foul in the penalty area in the 47th minute. Sánchez stepped up and converted the penalty emphatically, firing into the top corner to restore parity.

As the match progressed, BFC continued to dominate possession but struggled to find a decisive breakthrough against Odisha’s deep defensive shape and the points were shared.

Published on May 4, 2026