Ahan Sharma’s Brace Powers Mumbai City FC to Round III of MFA Nadkarni Cup 2024

by Chittu Shetty November 16, 2024

Ahan Sharma stars with brace as Mumbai City FC delivered a dominant performance to defeat ICL Mumbai, the defending Harwood Champions League winners, 3-0 in the MFA Nadkarni Cup 2024.

The young Islanders impressed with an early strike by Mangthenlal Haokip, complemented by a second-half brace from substitute Ahan Sharma, to secure their progression into Round III.

The match began in dramatic fashion as Mumbai City FC opened the scoring within the first minute. Dynamic Midfielder Aadil Sheikh intercepted a misplaced pass on the right flank, advanced quickly, and delivered a pinpoint cross into the penalty area. Mangthenlal perfectly positioned and unmarked, executed a diving header that sailed into the bottom corner, catching ICL completely off guard.

Despite the early setback, ICL Mumbai fought back, with their midfield orchestrating attacks. A key opportunity arose when their No. 8 threaded a precise through ball to Zeeshan, who broke free of the defense for a one-on-one with goalkeeper Harsh Kadam. However, Harsh Kadam’s sharp reflexes denied Zeeshan, keeping Mumbai City in the lead.

Before halftime, Mumbai City nearly doubled their lead through Aadil Sheikh. Jaffer capitalized on a defensive lapse by pressing effectively and winning possession deep in ICL’s territory. His square pass into the box found Sheikh, whose powerful half-volley skimmed just past the post. Both teams pressed hard as the half progressed, but the Islanders held firm to retain their slender advantage.

The second half opened with Mumbai City maintaining their momentum, and it was once again Aadil Sheikh at the centre of the action. Dribbling past multiple defenders, Aadil’s relentless drive brought him to the edge of the box, where his lobbed shot skimmed the crossbar.

Moments later, Zeeshan created two golden opportunities for ICL. His pinpoint cross into the six-yard box caught Mumbai City’s defense off-guard, but his teammate failed to convert the simple chance. Shortly after, Zeeshan’s delivery to the far post clipped the woodwork, a reflection of ICL’s struggles to convert chances.

Mumbai City eventually doubled their lead in the 68th minute through Ahan Sharma. The substitute striker received a well-placed pass from Aadil Sheikh at the edge of the box. Taking a measured first touch, Sharma unleashed a left-footed strike that clipped the underside of the bar before finding the back of the net.

Shortly after the water break, Ahan Sharma struck again to seal the victory. Ishan Shishodia, delivering from the short corner, sent in a precise cross to the far post. Timing his jump perfectly, Sharma connected with a powerful header that left the keeper with no chance.

ICL’s Zeeshan, despite his tireless efforts, continued to battle against misfortune. His audacious shot in the closing moments rattled the woodwork for the third time, epitomizing the kind of day it was for ICL Mumbai.

FT: Mumbai City FC 3 (Mangthenlal 1′, Ahan Sharma 69′, 78′)-0 ICL Mumbai

With this win, Mumbai City FC Youths advance to Round III, continuing their impressive run in the tournament. Two standout performance from two individuals yet again. In the first match Aadil scored and a brace and Ahan scored a hat-trick and in the second Aadil contributed with 2 assists while Ahan scored twice again. Their attacking fluidity, combined with defensive solidity, makes them strong contenders for the MFA Nadkarni Cup 2024.

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