MYJ-GMSC and Their Tough Battle for Qualification

by FC September 11, 2024

MYJ-GMSC, debuting on the national stage in the I-League 3, have experienced a campaign marked by both determination and growing pains.

Coming off an unbeaten run in the Mumbai Premier League, the team entered the competition with high hopes, but as the tournament progressed, the realities of competing at this level began to unfold.

Their first match against HAL Bengaluru was a gritty contest, battling through a waterlogged pitch and falling behind early. Yet, the team displayed their fighting spirit, clawing back with a stoppage-time equalizer from Himanshu Patil, showcasing their tenacity to compete against more seasoned sides.

The second match saw them carry forward that momentum with a commanding 4-0 victory over Coromandel SC. Led by a brilliant brace from Himanshu Patil, and a goal each by Shanon Periera & Vidpit Dua underscoring the team’s potential when firing on all cylinders.

However, their third outing against Chanmari FC proved a more frustrating affair. Despite controlling large portions of the game and creating numerous chances, a solitary lapse in defense allowed Chanmari to capitalize and snatch a 1-0 win. MYJ-GMSC threw everything forward in the dying moments, with even Keegan Pereira’s late free kick saved, but their efforts were in vain.

Now, heading into their final group-stage match against RKM FA, MYJ-GMSC finds themselves on the brink. While a win is essential, their qualification for the next round hinges on several scenarios aligning in their favor.

Qualification Scenarios for MYJ-GMSC:

Must-Win for MYJ-GMSC: MYJ-GMSC, sitting at 4 points after 3 games, must secure a victory with minimum of 5 goals in their final match against RKM FA. A win would take them to 7 points.
Dependence on HAL’s Result:
- If HAL Bengaluru loses their match against the table toppers Chanmari FC, they will remain at 7 points. In this case, MYJ-GMSC, with a win, would also reach 7 points. Qualification would then be determined by head-to-head results, goal difference, or other tie-breaking criteria.
- If HAL Bengaluru wins or draws against Chanmari FC, HAL will secure a place in the next round, irrespective of MYJ-GMSC’s result, as they will have at least 8 points.