Mumbai City FC U-19 punches ticket to the Mumbai Premier League

by Shantanu Kadam March 14, 2024

In a fiercely contested match at the Nevilee Dsouza ground, Mumbai City FC U-19 clinched a crucial victory over Maharashtra Oranje FC (U23) in MFA Super League playoffs.

The stakes were high, with a spot in the prestigious Mumbai Premier League on the line for the top two teams in the playoffs table.

Mumbai City FC U-19, boasting an impeccable record throughout the season, entered the match unbeaten. Their resolve and proficiency were evident from the kickoff, despite facing a formidable opponent MH Oranje FC U23. The match saw both teams displaying exceptional prowess, with moments of brilliance on either end. In the 26th minute Oranje FC’s Zothanpuia initiated a promising attack, he received a well through pass from Surendra which he dribbled past two defenders before unleashing a powerful shot only to be denied by the woodwork as the shot hit the middle of the crossbar while Rahul Nair missed the rebound on volley.

Not to be outdone, in the 34th minute Sahil Shaikh, right back of Oranje FC, pressed all the way from the right flank to the goalkeeper, resulting in Shaurya losing pass met Egan Fernandes who unleashed a powerful strike from distance, meeting the same fate against the woodwork. In the 41st minute, Zothanpuia delivered a precise through pass from halfway line to Egan who seemed to be out of luck today as again his shot kissed the woodwork and deflected out.

Later, Abhinav Mukala delivered a chip pass over the defender met the header of Zothanpuia who again seemed to be down on luck as the header hit the goal post. Oranje FC, hopeless, looked to get their work done in the second half as both teams went into halftime with the scoreline level.

The second half witnessed a surge in Mumbai City FC’s momentum, as they intensified their offensive efforts. It was Mumbai’s number Eashan Sarpate who broke the deadlock with a composed finish inside the box, injecting a renewed sense of confidence into his team in the 51st minute.

Buoyed by the opening goal, Mumbai City FC U-19 continued to press forward, with Mangthenlal doubling their lead in the 80th minute. A loose pass in the defense saw the super sub of Mumbai City grab the opportunity and net the ball inside. Despite Oranje FC’s spirited resistance, Mumbai’s defense stood tall, thwarting any attempts at a comeback.

Ultimately, Mumbai City FC U-19 emerged victorious with a 2-0 win, securing their passage to the MFA Elite Premier League. This crucial win caps off an impressive run in the playoffs, where Mumbai City FC U-19 remained unbeaten, winning all four matches.

With their Elite Premier League berth confirmed, Mumbai City FC U-19 now sets their sights on the next challenge facing India On Track. Both teams remain undefeated throughout the playoffs and league stage, with the previous meeting them ending in a 0-0 draw thereby adding extra tension to the upcoming match. India On Track (IOT), has to secure a victory to lift the MFA Super League title, while a draw will enough for the Islanders colts

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Also Read: Second Half goals help IOT register a 2-1 win over Somaiya FC

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

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