MH Oranje FC Advance to Round III of MFA Nadkarni Cup 2024

by FC Admin November 19, 2024

MH Oranje FC secured their spot in Round III of the MFA Nadkarni Cup 2024 with a 2-0 victory over Hope United, marking the third meeting between the teams this season. The win came through decisive moments of clinical finishing and defensive stability.

Hope United had the first significant chance of the match when Shivam stepped up for a free kick. His effort seemed destined for the back of the net, but Mukunthan, Oranje’s goalkeeper, pulled off an exceptional save to keep the scoreline level.

Oranje took the lead just before halftime. Right back Atharva Kulkarni’s incisive pass found Hersh, who made a surging run down the right flank. Hersh drove into the box and unleashed a powerful shot that the Hope keeper initially parried. However, the ball skimmed through his hands, and while a Hope defender cleared it, the referee confirmed it had already crossed the line.

In the second half, Hersh continued to threaten, coming close to doubling the lead. Receiving a pass inside the box, he fired another fierce shot, but this time the Hope keeper was well-positioned to make a crucial save.

Hope United sought an equalizer with Cletus attempting a long-range free kick from over 25 yards. It was an ambitious effort, but Mukunthan displayed his shot-stopping prowess again with a fingertip save.

Oranje extended their advantage just before the water break. A defensive lapse by Hope allowed substitute Pratham to capitalize. A miscalculated clearance from Hope’s backline fell perfectly for Pratham, who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner to make it 2-0.

With a commanding lead, Oranje continued to push for more goals, creating numerous opportunities. Despite missing a few sitters, their two-goal cushion proved enough to seal the win.

This match was the decider in the teams’ 2024-25 season rivalry. Oranje had dominated their first clash in the Harwood Champions League, while Hope United claimed a narrow win in their Mumbai Premier League encounter. In this Nadkarni Cup tie, Oranje emerged victorious, taking the upper hand in their three-match saga.

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