WIFA Inter-District Championship: Nagpur clinches back to back title, Mumbai’s resurgence ends in narrow defeat

by Chittu Shetty February 6, 2024

In a thrilling culmination to the 2023-24 WIFA Inter-District Men’s Championship, Nagpur clinched their second consecutive title, edging past Mumbai in a riveting final at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Stadium on February 5, 2024.

Nagpur’s championship journey was defined by grit, overcoming tough adversaries like Gondia and Kolhapur in the quarter-finals and semi-finals. Captain Fahad Azmi emerged as a key player, contributing three pivotal goals to Nagpur’s total of six throughout the tournament.

Mumbai’s return to the Championship’s final after a five-year hiatus was nothing short of spectacular. The team showcased remarkable determination, securing significant victories against Pune and Jalna on their path to the championship clash against Nagpur.

The highly anticipated final between Nagpur and Mumbai unfolded amidst an electric atmosphere, with a massive turnout of fans. Despite Mumbai’s commendable efforts, Skipper Fahad Azmi altered the course of the game, securing the lead in the 25th minute. Riding on this advantage, Nagpur played with increased confidence, but Mumbai relentlessly pressed on, refusing to concede defeat.

As the match progressed, Mumbai surged forward to break Nagpur’s defense, but the latter stood resilient. The game intensified in the closing moments, marked by heightened physicality and a flurry of unnecessary tackles and fouls. The referee dished out five yellow cards in injury time, underscoring the intensity of the final moments.

The final whistle eventually sounded, sealing Nagpur’s triumph over Mumbai with a narrow 1-0 scoreline.

In the battle for the third-place position earlier in the day, Pune and Kolhapur engaged in a heated match that ended 1-1 after 90 minutes, leading to a penalty shootout. Yashraj Kamble scored the opening goal for Kolhapur in the 20th minute, with Pune’s Mohit Ugade equalizing in the first minute post half-time break. Pune ultimately secured the third-place position with a 4-2 victory in penalties, with the goalkeeper Mihir Sawant playing a starring role with two crucial saves.

Also Read: Mumbai beat Pune 3-1 to reach WIFA Inter-District final after 5 years

Also Read: Mumbai Squad ready to conquer in WIFA Inter-District Championship

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