In a thrilling semi-final match of the 133rd Durand Cup, defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant defeated Bengaluru FC 4-3 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in regular time. The game started with Bengaluru dominating possession and creating chances, but Mohun Bagan's defense stood strong. Liston Colaco's dangerous shots were saved by Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, while Sunil Chhetri's opportunity was missed due to a great defensive play by Vishal Kaith. Ultimately, it was Mohun Bagan's composure and efficient penalty kicks that secured them a spot in the final.
Mohun Bagan Triumphs Over Bengaluru FC in Durand Cup Semi-Final Thriller
In a heart-stopping semi-final clash of the 133rd Durand Cup, defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant edged out Bengaluru FC 4-3 on penalties after a pulsating 2-2 draw in regulation time.
Match Highlights:
The match commenced with Bengaluru FC asserting their dominance in possession and generating opportunities. However, Mohun Bagan's defense, led by Vishal Kaith, stood resolute. Liston Colaco's menacing shots were thwarted by Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, while Sunil Chhetri's chance was squandered due to an exceptional defensive intervention from Kaith.
As the game progressed, Mohun Bagan began to gain momentum. In the 32nd minute, Asheer Akhtar fired a precise shot into the bottom corner to hand Mohun Bagan the lead. Bengaluru responded tenaciously in the 52nd minute when Sivasakthi Narayanan equalized with a powerful strike.
The tempo of the game escalated as both teams sought the winning goal. Mohun Bagan regained the lead through Nongdamba Naorem in the 70th minute, but Bengaluru refused to be denied. Just four minutes later, Pablo Perez leveled the scores once more, sending the match into extra time.
In the additional period, neither team could find the breakthrough, resulting in a penalty shootout. Mohun Bagan converted all four of their attempts, while Bengaluru missed a crucial penalty in sudden death, handing the victory to the Kolkata giants.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Who is Vishal Kaith?
Vishal Kaith is an Indian professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Mohun Bagan. He is known for his exceptional reflexes and shot-stopping abilities.
2. What was Kaith's role in the semi-final match?
Kaith made several crucial saves throughout the match, including a critical intervention to deny Sunil Chhetri a goal-scoring opportunity. He also commanded his defense effectively, contributing to Mohun Bagan's resilience.
3. Why did the match go to penalties?
Despite numerous chances in regular and extra time, neither team could find a winning goal, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.
4. What was the significance of Mohun Bagan's victory?
This victory propelled Mohun Bagan into the final of the 133rd Durand Cup, where they will face the winner of the other semi-final between Odisha FC and Hyderabad FC.
5. What's next for Mohun Bagan and Bengaluru FC?
Mohun Bagan will now prepare for the Durand Cup final, while Bengaluru FC will shift their focus to the upcoming Indian Super League season, which is set to commence in October.
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