Bengaluru: Hosts Bengaluru FC scored a late goal to beat Maziya Sports and Recreation club of Maldives 2-1 and register their maiden victory in the AFC Cup here yesterday. Shankar Sampingiraj (90+3) scored the winner late into extra time after skipper Sunil Chhetri gave Bengaluru FC the lead in the 67th minute in their opening Group E match at the Kanteerava stadium.

The match was headed for a draw after Umair Chhetri (88th minute) restored parity for Maziya with a spot kick after John Johnson committed a handball inside the box that led to the penalty. After a goalless opening half, Bengaluru almost took the lead three minute into the second period when Rino Anto's inch-perfect cross was met with a Robin Singh header but Maziya goalkeeper Imran made a fine diving save to deny the hosts.