Bengaluru FC got their Indian Super League campaign off to a perfect start with a 1-0 win over defending champions Chennaiyin FC at the Sree Kanteerava stadium here on Sunday.
In what was a repeat of last season's final at the same venue, Miku's 41st minute strike was enough for the Blues to overcome the visitors' challenge.
Chennaiyin FC will be disappointed as they got nothing out of this game, particularly after they were gifted two gild-edge chances to take the lead.
Xisco Hernandez won the ball following a midfield scrap in the near end of first half and quickly released Miku behind the Chennaiyin defence with a perfectly weighted pass.
The Venezuelan striker unleashed a thunderbolt of a shot which, despite being aimed at Karanjit's near post, left the Chennaiyin goalkeeper with no chance.
The visitors came close to grabbing an equaliser straight after the interval following a long-throw into the Bengaluru box.
The resulting loose ball fell to Inigo Calderon at the edge of the box whose blocked shot fell to Eli Sabia with his back to goal. The central defender's clever backheel unfortunately was directed straight to the rival goalkeeper.
Gregory threw caution to the wind in the closing stages by bringing on striker Carlos Salom for defender Mailson Alves. But while Chennaiyin threw the kitchen sink, the hosts held on to their lead for a perfect start to their campaign.
Lobera aims for 1st win
Guwahati: Having failed to make much of an impression in previous four attempts, NorthEast United FC will enter the Indian Super League with renewed hopes as they take on FC Goa.
However it will not be easy for NorthEast United. FC Goa have a measure of continuity about them as head coach Sergio Lobera takes charge of the team for a second successive season, while the hosts will be playing under Eelco Schattorie who has been handed the reins.