The reigning Indian Super League champions, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, kicked off their 2023 Durand Cup campaign with an explosive 5-0 victory over the formidable Bangladesh Army Football Team at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirngan or Salt Lake Stadium. The highly anticipated match unfolded at a packed stadium, with fans from both sides creating an electrifying atmosphere.
Mohun Bagan, eager to set the tone for their tournament, fielded a dynamic young lineup, displaying their commitment to nurturing emerging talent. Among the sea of promising players, only Manvir Singh and Liston Colaco stood as the senior figures, offering their invaluable experience to guide the team through the challenges that lay ahead.
On the other side, Bangladesh Army FT presented a formidable challenge. Boasting an experienced squad with several national team players named in the lineup, they were determined to prove their mettle against the reigning champions. As the referee blew the whistle, both teams marched onto the pitch with unwavering determination, setting the stage for an unforgettable clash.
The hosts kicked off the game with immense vigor, showcasing their attacking intent right from the start. It wasn’t long before Manvir Singh created the first clear-cut chance of the game, tantalizing the crowd with a powerful shot around the 10th minute. However, his attempt was expertly saved by the acrobatic Bangladesh Army goalkeeper, Ashraful Rana, denying Mohun Bagan an early lead.
Undeterred, the Mariners continued to press forward, displaying their trademark flair and tenacity. Taison Singh, the midfield maestro, demonstrated his vision with a sublime through-ball to the overlapping run of Ravi Rana, the right-back. With remarkable precision, Rana set up Liston Colaco for an easy tap-in, leaving the Bangladesh Army defense stunned and giving Mohun Bagan a well-deserved lead in the 18th minute.
Energized by their goal, Mohun Bagan persisted in their onslaught, seeking to extend their advantage further. Despite their best efforts, Bangladesh Army FT couldn’t convert their opportunities into goals, with Arsh Shaikh, the talented Mariners custodian, standing as an unyielding force between the posts.
The away side would rue their missed chances as Mohun Bagan swiftly capitalized on their momentum and increased their lead through a penalty. Manvir Singh, the prolific striker, confidently stepped up to the spot and dispatched the ball into the back of the net, widening the gap to 2-0 in the 30th minute.
Just when it seemed like Bangladesh Army FT might muster a response, Liston Colaco showcased his brilliance in the 38th minute. Picking up the ball near the halfway line, he dazzled past two defenders with incredible skill before selflessly setting up Suhail Bhat. The young forward exhibited composure beyond his years, chipping the onrushing goalkeeper, only to see the ball ricochet off a Bangladesh Army defender into the net. The stadium erupted in jubilation as the scoreline soared to 3-0 in favor of Mohun Bagan.
To compound the visitors’ misery, one of their midfielders received a red card in stoppage time of the first half, reducing them to ten men as they faced a daunting uphill battle.
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Second-Half Surge Propels Mohun Bagan Super Giant to a Resounding 5-0 Victory in Durand Cup Opener
The second half commenced with Mohun Bagan retaining their firm grip on the game. The ISL champions, though already in a dominant position, refused to let their intensity wane. Taison Singh came close to adding a fourth goal early on, narrowly missing the target with an audacious long-range effort.
However, it was only a matter of time before the fourth goal arrived. Liston Colaco, who had been nothing short of sensational throughout the match, stepped up to take a free-kick. His delivery was immaculate, finding the head of Manvir Singh, who flicked the ball on to Hnamte. The young forward made no mistake, slotting the ball home to register his first goal of the night in the 60th minute.
As the clock ticked on, Mohun Bagan eased off the gas, content with their commanding lead. Bangladesh Army FT, despite being a man down, displayed remarkable resilience and attempted to limit the damage. Yet, an unfortunate mistake by their goalkeeper in the 88th minute allowed substitute Kiyan Nassiri to capitalize and score his third goal of the Durand Cup, sealing a comprehensive 5-0 victory for Mohun Bagan Super Giant.
The final whistle resonated through the stadium, marking the end of a thrilling encounter. The crowd erupted into a chorus of cheers, celebrating their team’s sensational performance and sending a clear message to their rivals in the tournament. Mohun Bagan’s emphatic triumph in the Durand Cup opener served as a testament to their unwavering spirit, depth in talent, and commitment to football excellence.
As the dust settled on this enthralling battle, spectators and football enthusiasts alike were left eagerly anticipating Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s future matchups in the prestigious tournament. Mohun Bagan’s next match-up is against I-League Champions, Punjab FC who have been newly promoted to the ISL, on 7th of August, 2023.
With their blend of seasoned veterans and emerging stars, the ISL champions are undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with, and they have unmistakably set their sights on clinching the Durand Cup title once more.
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