Maharashtra signs off Santosh Trophy Group stage campaign with 3-0 win over Telangana

by Chittu Shetty October 23, 2023

In the final group-stage battle in the Santosh Trophy, Maharashtra showcased its football prowess with a commanding 3-0 victory over Telangana.

The game kicked off with Telangana displaying early impatience and a few initial errors, but they gradually found their rhythm. The match evolved into a tale of two halves. During the first half, both teams exhibited strong defensive organization, with occasional tests of each other’s backlines. Maharashtra dominated ball possession throughout the game, while Telangana relied on long balls to initiate their attacks.

The second half began with both teams eager to break the deadlock and challenge the opponent’s defenses. In the 74th minute, Maharashtra managed to break through. Advait Shinde orchestrated the move by winning possession in midfield. Maharashtra’s captain, Nikhil Kadam, took the ball forward and delivered a precise through ball to Himanshu Patil. Patil, in turn, played a sublime through ball to Advait Shinde, who showcased remarkable composure and slotted the ball into the net to give Maharashtra the lead.

After conceding the first goal, Telangana pressed high in search of equalizer. However, just six minutes later, Maharashtra doubled their advantage to 2-0. A precisely executed corner by number 20, Satish Hawaldar, led to a flicked header that was initially saved. However, Umesh Peramba was quick to react, seizing the opportunity and extending Maharashtra’s lead.

The third and final goal came in injury time. Maharashtra earned a corner kick, and Johnson Joseph Mathews took it swiftly, asking for the ball again to deliver an accurate cross. Himanshu Patel leaped elegantly and executed a textbook header, securing the victory for Maharashtra.

With this impressive win, Maharashtra concluded the group stage at the top of the table, having amassed a perfect nine points. The team now moves forward to the next stage of the Santosh Trophy competition with a surging wave of confidence.

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