Mumbay FC Mark MPL Debut with 2-1 Win Over Iron Born, courtesy to Arbaaz and Rohit

by Sakshi Bhosale October 18, 2024

Newly formed Mumbay FC grabs first win over Iron Born FC with two late goals to clinch a thrilling 2-1 win in their Mumbai Premier League debut.

After a goalless first half, Mumbay’s Arbaaz and skipper Rohit Mirza found the net in quick succession, while Iron Born’s late reply through Jatin Khilnani wasn’t enough to mount a comeback.

The match began with Mumbay FC taking an aggressive stance, while a young Iron Born side opted for a more defensive approach. Mumbay immediately tested the Iron Born defense, with Harsh Bhardwaj coming close to scoring the opener in the early stages. After a scrappy clearance by Iron Born, Harsh Bhardwaj unleashed a powerful half-volley that skimmed the far post, kissed the post and went.

As Mumbay continued pressing, another opportunity arose when Lalith controlled a loose ball with his chest and struck an ambitious volley. This time, Iron Born’s captain and goalkeeper, Raaquib Merchant, made a heroic fingertip save to deny what could have been a sensational goal.

The first half lacked a real breakthrough, with only a few notable chances. Both teams seemed cautious, more focused on possession than attacking risks.

However, the second half saw a rejuvenated Iron Born side pushing forward, creating some of their best chances of the game. Wingers Karan and Giriraj tormented Mumbay’s defenders, delivering dangerous crosses into the box. Yet, none of these deliveries met their target, as Iron Born’s attackers struggled to find the composure to finish.

The match seemed destined for a goalless draw until the final ten minutes, where the drama unfolded. Mumbay’s Arbaaz, who had been quiet & having off throughout the second half, produced a moment of magic. From the left flank, he whipped in a curling inswinger that caught everyone off guard, including Iron Born’s defense and goalkeeper, landing spectacularly in the top right corner for the lead.

Just moments later, Mumbay capitalized on Iron Born’s defensive lapse again. In the first minute of stoppage time, Mumbay’s skipper Rohit Mirza weaved through a disorganized defense, slotting the ball coolly into the bottom corner, doubling the lead.

Iron Born, however, refused to go down quietly. In the dying seconds, substitute Jatin Khilnani unleashed a stunning strike from outside the box. The ball took an unpredictable swerve, flying past Mumbay’s keeper Manish, who was left frozen. Despite the late heroics, the final whistle soon followed, securing a hard-fought 2-1 win for Mumbay FC.

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