Bengaluru FC’s striker Sunil Chhetri took a quick free-kick in the 95th minute and scored. Immediately after the goal was awarded, the Kerala Blasters staged a walkout, the first ever in 10 years since the league started.
Vibin Mohanan fouled Chhetri just outside the penalty box in the 95th minute as the heated semi-final qualifier dragged into extra time. Seizing the opportunity, Chhetri took advantage and took a right-footed kick straight into the nets as the opposite side was settling.
Kerala Blaster’s Serbian coach Ivan Vukomanovic beckoned his team to return to the dugout. Kerala Blaster’s captain Adrian Luna took off his captain’s armband and his squad followed him off the field. They claimed that the goal was awarded despite Chhetri taking the kick before the referee blew the whistle for the free kick.
“The 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,” said Sunil Chhetri to ESPN. He also said that he has never seen such an incident in the 22 years of his career.
Bengaluru FC was declared the winner of the qualifier as the Chhetri goal gave them a 1-0 lead. They will play the semi-final match in Mumbai City Arena on Friday.
The walkout sparked controversy and Kerala Blasters will likely face the penalty for their forfeiture.
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