2017’s top 10 — Bengaluru FC: Making its mark in Asia

The club again proved its dominance and class, towering above its counterparts in the country.

In a short span of four years, Bengaluru FC has carved a niche for itself in the Indian football scenario. The club, one of the best managed sports teams in country, is known for its initiatives to connect with the fans. The professionaly-managed BFC was rightly rewarded when the won the Federation Cup in Cuttack during May,2017.

It was a mixed year for Bengaluru FC. The I-League was a disappointment, with the club dropping out of the title race well before the end. It eventually finished fourth, seven points behind the champion Aizawl. The away form was decisive, with BFC winning only twice on the road all season.

Albert Roca was under a little pressure, but victory in the Federation Cup came as a huge relief. In a tense final against Mohun Bagan in Cuttack, BFC won 2-0 in extra-time, C. K. Vineeth scoring a brace.

The victory, achieved without an injured Sunil Chhetri, handed BFC a spot in the 2018 AFC Cup.

In the 2017 edition of the continental tournament BFC gave a good account of itself, moving to the brink of a second final in two years. Its campaign ended in unfortunate fashion, with a 2-2 draw in the second leg of the inter-zone play-off final against Istiklol of Tajikistan. It was a match BFC might have won with some better refereeing, but it was not to be.

The club, however, again proved its dominance and class, towering above its counterparts in the country. The professional setup has allowed the club to manage its players better.

The AFC Cup was followed by BFC's maiden foray into the ISL. Roca's men started well, posting wins against Mumbai City and Delhi Dynamos before going down in valiant fashion to FC Goa in Margao.

It is apparent early in the season that BFC, due in no small part to its AFC Cup campaign, is sharper and better-drilled than all its rivals.