XtraTime Web Desk: Exactly five years ago, Indian football witnessed an inception of a club, what would go on to be one of the best clubs in India’s club football history. Bengaluru FC has left a remarkable mark in every possible competition they have played. They have brought in a host of excellent coaches and players, like Ashley Westwood, the main architect of turning Bengaluru into an Indian powerhouse and then making way for former Barcelona assistant coach, Albert Roca to bring his prized expertise to the club. As far as the players are concerned, Indian icon Sunil Chhetri still donnes the Blue Jersey. With him as striker, has given many sleepless nights to the opposition defenders. John Johnson, Juanan, Miku and many other international players have all brought success to this 5-year old infant club.
Now let’s have a look at the South Indian club’s five illustrious achievements in this short span:-
I-LEAGUE WINNERS- 2013-14, 2015-16
Bengaluru made their presence felt in their debut season by becoming the first Indian club ever to win India’s top flight prize as a newbie. They won it for the second and for the last time in 2015-16 season before switching allegiance to the Indian Super League(ISL). They secured second position once, and finishing 4th once,thus cementing themselves as a consistent force in their four seasons in the I-League.
FEDERATION CUP WINNERS- 2014-15, 2016-17
The Blues added their second accolade as in the prestigious Federation Cup in the following season after winning the I-League in their inaugural season. They once again truimphed in the coveted tournament after a gap of one season.
AFC CUP FINAL RUNNERS-UP- 2015-16
Bengaluru defied all odds by becoming the first Indian club ever to reach a AFC club continental cup Final. But eventually they lost the final, after a dream run, losing to Iraqi club Air Force Club by a solitary goal.
HERO INDIAN SUPER CUP WINNERS- 2018
Bengaluru rolled back the years once again when they won the inaugural Indian Super Cup, in their first ever attempt, comprising of both I-League and ISL clubs by comprehensively beating East Bengal 4-1 in the final.
HERO INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE
Bengaluru FC became the first club from I-League to compete at the highly competitive franchisee league, the Indian Super League(ISL). They reached the Final in the their debut season, but fell short to eventual winners Chennaiyin.