Indian Super League: Costa's 87th-minute header secures Bengaluru FC a 1-0 win over NorthEast United FC

With the return of the home-and-away format, Bengaluru FC pleased their fans at the Sri Kanteerava Stadium. The visiting team, NorthEast United FC, did not let their opponents slip out a win without competition. 

Marco Balbul's side lacked good practice due to receiving fewer chances to play competitive football in the build-up to their ISL opener, but they played like fighters against the Blues. 

The match favoured Bengaluru FC in the opening minutes as they looked for a perfect opening to score. Balbul's side was relatively more laid back, and their occasional efforts disrupted Bengaluru FC's defence.

The Highlanders studied the movement of the opposition full-backs and didn't let them tread as much. On the left flank, Jithin M.S. kept an eye on Prabir Das's flexible ball approach. 

The former Gokulam Kerala FC winger blocked Das' efforts and overpowered him for most of the first half. Meanwhile, Emil Benny's debut for NorthEast United was interrupted by an injury in the first half. 

As a replacement, Gani Nigam was called to the field. Amidst the commotion, Bengaluru FC found a chance to score. Naorem Roshan Singh set up a ball for Sivasakthi Narayanan. 

The young forward, unluckily, messed up the angle, and the ball went past the post. The match entered the final minutes, and NorthEast United FC began to exert more dominance. 

Romain Philippoteaux and Jon Gaztanaga stood out with their performances. The latter is a former Ligue one midfielder who challenged Simon Grayson's defenders. 

Bengaluru FC took a last-minute lead

Bengaluru FC received a corner in the 87th minute, and Javi Hernandez's shot went to Costa, who sent the ball into the net. However, the Blues started to fumble. 

They couldn't respond to a NorthEast United FC corner, and the opening was met by Gaztanaga, who shot a striking volley that was ruled offside.

Marco Balbul was outraged at the referee's decision, but his plea backfired on the gaffer as he received a red card. The match concluded with Bengaluru FC winning. 

NorthEast United FC has alarmed Bengaluru FC of their shortcomings despite the match ending. The Blues were inadequate on many occasions, which needs a fix.

Meanwhile, NorthEast United FC is likely to intimidate other clubs this season as they have visibly improved. Their next opponents are defending champions Hyderabad FC, who would give the northeastern team a tough challenge.