All of Mohun Bagan attackers scored a goal each
In a spectacular display of football prowess, Mohun Bagan Super Giants kicked off their Durand Cup campaign with a resounding victory. They overpowered the Bangladesh Army with an impressive score line of 5-0 in their opening match at the Salt Lake Stadium.
The clash between the two teams was highly anticipated, and the match lived up to its expectations as Mohun Bagan Super Giants asserted their dominance from the opening whistle. The home team’s fans witnessed a masterclass performance that displayed their attacking flair and tight defensive organization.
From the outset, Mohun Bagan Super Giants displayed their intent to dominate the proceedings. Their high-pressing game and fluid passing left Bangladesh Army struggling to find their rhythm.
The team’s forward line, led by Suhail Bhat, wreaked havoc on the Bangladesh Army defense throughout the game. Identically Manvir and Liston in both the flanks were excellent with their dribbling. Thus, they created a lot of threats combing with the young forward Suhail. Conversely, they caused a lot of problems for the opponent team’s goalkeeper, Ashraful Islam who plays for the Bangladesh national team. Bangladesh army made determined efforts to counterattack, but Bagan’s defense stood in their way.
On the eight-minute mark, Liston tried to go past defenders and a clumsy challenge brought him down. Nevertheless, the opponent was given a yellow card for the harsh tackle. It didn’t take long for the first goal to come, as the Super Giants’ star striker found the back of the net. A perfect move by Suhail in the middle who passed the ball to Ravi Rani on the right flank. A measured cross and a tap-in by Liston Colaco.
Subsequently, the early goal served as a morale booster for the home side, who continued to pile on the pressure. The midfield trio orchestrated play with precision, creating numerous goal-scoring opportunities. Approaching the half-hour mark, a player brought down Hnamte inside the box. Hence, the referee pointed to the penalty spot. Suhail handed over the ball to Manvir who made no mistake putting Mohun Bagan two goals up.
As the first half progressed, the Super Giants maintained their stranglehold on the game. The crowd erupted in cheers as a clinical team move culminated in a third goal, showcasing the team’s remarkable coordination and teamwork. Thus, the Bangladesh Army struggled to break through the resolute defense of the Super Giants, finding themselves with limited opportunities to counter.
Suhail scored the third for Mohun Bagan around the 40th minute from a perfect chip from Liston after his brilliant skills which made him free from two defenders. Bangladesh Army was reduced to 10 men in the injury time (45+3) when its defender Mijanur Rahaman was sent off following his second booking of the match.
The second half saw no let-up in Mohun Bagan Super Giants’ intensity. Brijesh Giri came in for Amandeep. Their attacking prowess was on full display as they added two more goals to their tally, leaving Bangladesh Army with a mountain to climb. The Super Giants’ forwards exploited gaps in the opposition’s defense, making use of their speed and accuracy to rattle the net.
As a matter of fact, Abhishek Suryavanshi performed well on the defensive screen in midfield. Consequently, Liston and Suhail once again combined well, as the Bangladesh keeper punched away Suhail’s powerful shot.
Hence it was no surprise when Mohun Bagan Super Giants increased their lead with a brilliantly executed set-piece that caught the Bangladesh Army defense off guard. A smart set piece movement yet again as Liston chipped it to Manvir at the near post who flicked it on with his heel for Hnamte to slot into an empty net! Finally, Kiyan made it five for the Mariners with a simple tap-in of the rebound of Liston.
Thus, the match concluded with a resounding 5-0 victory for Mohun Bagan Super Giants. Hence, setting a strong tone for their Durand Cup campaign. Hnamte put in a man-of-the-match performance by ruling the midfield.
Bagans’ impressive display sends a clear message to their rivals that they are a force to be reckoned with. The fans’ excitement is palpable as they anticipate more thrilling matches in this prestigious tournament.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee along with other eminent personalities were present to mark the opening of Durand Cup 2023.
