IoT FC asserted their mark with a comfortable 3-1 victory over MH Oranje FC U23

by Anas Mujawar March 10, 2024

IoT FC picked their 2nd win in the playoff round to move to the top of the table with a convincing 3-1 victory over MH oranje FC U23 outfit in saturdays Mumbai Super League playoff encounter

In a high-stakes encounter, both teams were eager to secure a crucial three points and solidify their standings in the group. IoT FC emerged victorious, with Leisemba, Saurabh, and Amrendra playing pivotal roles in a commanding 3-1 win against MH Oranje FC. On the flip side, Egan managed to notch a solitary goal for Oranje FC.

From the opening moments, both sides displayed attacking intent. Oranje FC quickly earned a free kick outside the box, where Zothanpuia’s excellent attempt nearly found the mark, only to be thwarted by Anish’s acrobatic save within the first 30 seconds. IoT FC earned a penalty in the 3rd minute after a cutback from Sanus Ranjan led to a stumbled handball by Abhinav Mukala. Leisemba calmly converted from the spot, slotting the ball into the left corner. In the 9th minute, relentless pressing by IoT FC resulted in a defensive lapse, allowing Saurabh Nikam to exploit a fake move by Jatinder Singh and score to the right bottom corner.

Despite facing an early 2-0 deficit, MH Oranje FC U23 showcased resilience. In the 14th minute, Zothanpuia initiated a counter, dribbling past defenders and setting up Egan. However, Fasal Muhammad’s clinical tackle thwarted Egan’s attempt. The 33rd minute witnessed a spirited response from Oranje FC as Egan pressed on the right corner, danced through 3-4 defenders, and slotted the ball into the right bottom corner, pulling one back. At halftime, the scoreline stood at 2-1 in favor of IoT FC, leaving Oranje FC with work to do.

As the game resumed, IoT FC continued to threaten the goal, with Raaquib Merchant making crucial saves for Oranje FC. In the 48th minute, Anurag PC delivered a precise through pass to Saurabh Nikam, who delivered a cutback for Liesemba powerful shot was met with a pinpoint save by Raaquib Merchant. Despite efforts from Zothanpuia and Rahul Nair who were orchestrator for Oranje FC, IoT FC’s defense stood firm, denying their attempts.

In the 71st minute, Oranje FC’s hopes dwindled as they were punished by Amrendra Singh, Saurabh Nikam precise long ball caught Amrendra who comfortably controlled the ball and asserted himself with 1v1 against Abhinav before unleashing a belter from his left foot in a 1v1 situation.

Although Rahul Nair’s long ball found Egan in the 75th minute, resulting in a chip over the keeper and a netted ball, it was disallowed for offside. The final whistle confirmed IoT FC’s 3-1 triumph.

As the match concluded, IoT FC secured 7 points in 3 games, while Oranje FC stands at 3 points in 2 games. With the Super Division playoffs heading towards an exciting climax in the next six days, anticipation is on the rise.

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Also Read: Oranje U23 seals playoff spot after Iron Born, KSA Junior stalemate in Mumbai Super League thriller

Also Read: Mumbai Super League Playoff:Om Saidham, Somaiya FC settle for 2-2 draw

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