Shreyas Zele hattrick seals MFA Independence Cup for Mumbai Ultras FC

by Chittu Shetty August 15, 2024

The final of the Independence Cup 2024 between Mumbai Ultras and Salsette FC at Neville D’Souza Football Ground was a thrilling display of football, with Mumbai Ultras emerging victorious, led by a sensational hattrick from Shreyas Zele.

The match kicked off with on a high with Ultras pressing hard, and it took them just five minutes for Mumbai Ultras to take the lead. Shreyas Zele, who was in sublime form, scored the first goal of the match with a stunning volley from almost 25 yards out. The goal came after a perfectly whipped cross from the left-back, Aman Jangid. Salsette FC’s defense initially cleared the ball, but it fell perfectly for Shreyas, who, with impeccable technique, unleashed a powerful half-volley that rocketed into the top left corner of the net. This goal set the tone for the rest of the match and was arguably the goal of the tournament.

Not resting on their laurels, Mumbai Ultras continued to press high, and in the 12th minute, Shreyas struck again. This time, the goal was a testament to his poacher’s instinct and clinical finishing. Receiving the ball at the edge of the penalty box, Shreyas cleverly maneuvered past two defenders and unleashed a low, driven shot that slipped past the outstretched hands of Salsette FC’s goalkeeper, doubling Mumbai Ultras’ lead.

Just three minutes later, Shreyas completed his hattrick, showcasing his exceptional composure and skill inside the box. A perfectly timed backheel pass from Ryan found Shreyas in a dangerous position. With deft footwork, he dribbled past the onrushing goalkeeper, leaving him stranded, and calmly slotted the ball into an empty net. This brilliant display of attacking prowess effectively sealed the game before the half-time whistle.

The second half saw Mumbai Ultras continue their dominance, though they couldn’t add to their tally. Joyson, the forward for Mumbai Ultras, nearly scored another spectacular goal when he received a precise cross from Aman Jangid, but his shot narrowly missed the target, brushing past the left post.

Salsette FC, to their credit, didn’t give up and sought to find a way back into the game. Their best chance came late in the match when Devansh, their skipper, made a surging run past two defenders and dribbled past the Ultras’ keeper, only to see his effort agonizingly miss the goal by inches.

Despite Salsette FC’s late efforts, Mumbai Ultras’ defense remained resolute, and the match ended 3-0, with Shreyas’ first-half hattrick proving to be the decisive factor.

Mumbai Ultras’ victory in the Independence Day Cup 2024 is a significant achievement, marking a strong start to their season.

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