A 'contentious goal' from football legend Sunil Chettri stirred massive controversy in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) match between Kerala Blasters and Bengaluru FC at Bengaluru's Kanteerava Stadium, on Friday.
Chhetri converted a free-kick in the 97th minute (1st half of extra time) to give Bengaluru 1-0 lead after the match ended in a 0-0 draw after regulation time. Adrian Luna-led Kerala Blasters weren't happy with the goal as they believe that Chhetri took the free-kick before referee blew his whistle, and the players were not ready.
Watch Sunil Chhetri's controversial goal...
This followed an unprecedented forfeiture and walk out by the Blasters despite 20 minutes remaining as referee Crystal John, despite counter-claims and protests by Kerala players, declared it a legitimate goal. Serbian coach Ivan Vukomanovic was spotted asking Kerala Blasters players to walk off the pitch.
By virtue of 1-0 lead in extra-time, Bengaluru FC were declared winners and will now go up against Mumbai City FC in a two-legged semi-final on March 7 and 12 which start with an away trip.
"I've never seen this in my 22 years of career.
This is not the right way to do it," Chhetri reacted of the KBFC's walk-out.
On the controversial freekick, he said: "I always ask the referee because if he does not allow, it wouldn't happen.
"It was a bitter-sweet moment. First, we thought if the match would happen or not. But I'm happy that we are through to the semi-finals. Can't wait to take on Mumbai." About the goal, Chhetri said that he followed usual rules during a direct free-kick during which it is not mandatory for referee to blow the whistle if the player has already sought permission. "Referee asked me if I wanted the wall or the whistle. They always do it. I said that I don't want the whistle as well as the wall," Chhetri told broadcasters after the match.