Bengaluru ∙ ‘Sunil Chhetri cheated Kerala Blasters fans’ – This is the general sentiment shared by Kerala Blasters fans on social media after the controversial goal in the ISL play-off match at Srikanthirava Stadium in Bengaluru. A match that had progressed excitingly was plunged into controversy by Chhetri’s goal in extra time.
It is also noteworthy that the first playoff match in the history of the Indian Super League has again become a part of history through extraordinary developments. Blasters claim that Chhetri scored the goal before the players were ready. The ground witnessed footballing moments like no other as the coach called back the Blasters players after the controversy and confusion over the goal.
The main question is whether Sunil Chhetri’s goal was allowed. Even before the Blasters players protested and left the field, videos of such goals being scored in various professional football matches and the referee allowing them had started circulating on social media. Among them is the video of the goal scored by Real Madrid player Nacho in the match between Real Madrid and Sevilla in 2017. The Sevilla players protested but the referee allowed the goal.
Meanwhile, a video of the referee giving a yellow card to Lionel Messi, who scored such a goal in his early years at Barca, is also circulating.
Meanwhile, Blasters fans are pointing out on social media that they did not expect such a move from a respectable player like Sunil Chhetri. There is no shortage of people calling the referee who was firm on the goal decision. Anyway, this goal and the vibes it created will surely continue for a long time in the world of Indian football.
English Summary: Kerala Blasters Walk Off in Protest As Coach Ivan Vukomanovic Withdraws Team After Controversial Quick Free Kick Goal From Sunil Chhetri in ISL 2022-23 Knockout Match