CFCI (U23) hold Maharashtra Oranje (U23) to 0-0 draw, spice up Mumbai Super League playoff race in Group B

by Chittu Shetty December 31, 2023

The Mumbai Super League Group B encounter sees, Maharashtra Oranje (U23) being held to 0-0 draw by CFCI (U23) as the playoff race opens up in Group B.

In a crucial showdown, league leaders Maharashtra Oranje (U23) faced off against CFCI (U23) with the former aiming to secure their playoff spot with an outright win.

Early in the match, Arjun Silwal showcased his dribbling prowess, penetrating the CFCI defense. His precision cut-back found Egan Fernandes, but the subsequent strike sailed over the bar, missing a promising opportunity.

As the half progressed, Abhinav Mukala rose for a header, meeting the delivery from Prateek Thakur, only to direct it wide. Meanwhile, CFCI attempted a long-range strike that narrowly missed its mark.

The intense first half concluded with a deadlock at 0-0, both teams hungry for an advantage.

The second half brought its share of excitement as Sahil Shaikh orchestrated a dangerous delivery into the box. Uday Yadav, surging in from the left, connected well but couldn’t find the target, leaving the spectators on edge. At the other end, Oranje’s defense remained resolute, thwarting CFCI’s attempts to seize control.

Meanwhile Oranje continued to look for goals, Egan Fernandes, a constant threat, received a cross from the right, cutting it back to Rahul Unnithan, whose shot veered wide. As the clock wound down, Oranje intensified their pursuit of a winning goal. Prateek Thakur eyed a freekick from the edge of the box, but the resilient CFCI wall blocked the attempt.

In the dying moments, Oranje was awarded a penalty, a golden opportunity to clinch victory. However, Prateek Thakur’s powerful attempt soared over the bar, resulting in a dramatic 0-0 draw.

The draw, while keeping Oranje at the top, introduces a twist in the playoff race, providing hope for pursuing teams with additional games in hand.

The Mumbai Super League continues to deliver suspense and unpredictability as teams in all three groups are currently jostling for coveted playoff spots.

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