MYJ-GMSC Crowned Champions of the MFA Nadkarni Cup 2024

by Chittu Shetty January 1, 2025

MYJ-GMSC continues to making waves in Mumbai football, adding another prestigious trophy to their cabinet in just the second year of the club’s professional history.

This time, they have claimed one of the most coveted titles in the country, the historic Nadkarni Cup, a tournament with over a century of legacy.

The Mighty Lions triumphed over the Mumbai City FC development team in a tightly contested final, securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory. Palash Barber’s decisive strike in the first half proved to be the difference.

The final was a rematch of the Mumbai Premier League opener, where MYJ-GMSC had previously displayed their aerial prowess. Both teams came prepared for this high-stakes encounter, with Mumbai City determined to neutralize MYJ’s primary strength.

Early exchanges saw MYJ testing Mumbai City’s defense with attempts from Tanmay and Abhijit, but the Islanders’ backline, marshaled by goalkeeper and skipper Harsh Kadam, held firm.

Mumbai City absorbed the aerial threat and launched havoc through Jaffer Mansoori on right wing, whose probing runs on the right flank troubled MYJ’s defense. Later Despite a well-placed through ball from Aadil Sheikh to Ishaan Sisodia, MYJ’s captain Keegan led his backline with resilience to deny a clear scoring opportunity.

The dramatic moment arrived midway through the first half. Palash Barber won a foul near the right flank, just outside the box. Initially, the impact of the foul left Palash in pain, and he signaled for the physio to attend to him. However, a decisive turning point followed—captain Keegan, a player with international experience and a shanon from the Maharashtra State team, approached Palash and urged him to continue playing. This act of leadership turned out to be a pivotal moment in the match.

Keegan delivered a stunning, pinpoint free kick toward the far left corner of the goal. With a crowd of defenders blocking the space, Palash rose to meet the ball with perfect timing and executed the header into the top left corner. The goal excited the bench, and the crowd erupted in joy with a goal in the grand finale. After scoring, Palash embraced both Keegan and Shanon, acknowledging their guidance. Once again, MYJ’s aerial dominance proved to be their weapon, as they scored yet another header against Mumbai City—who have now conceded five goals to MYJ, all coming from aerial battles. It’s an aspect Mumbai City will undoubtedly need to address moving forward.

Mumbai City fought back with intent, led by Aadil Sheikh, whose two audacious strikes narrowly missed the target. A late first-half opportunity saw Ishaan flick a free kick towards an unmarked Mihir and Ahaan at the far post, but the chance went begging, leaving the Young Islanders trailing at halftime.

In the second half, Mumbai City’s head coach Mohan Das made tactical adjustments, introducing three substitutes to invigorate their attack. However, MYJ’s experienced defensive line, anchored by Keegan and Umesh, proved impenetrable. Despite relentless pressure and 9 minutes of added time, Mumbai City struggled to breach the MYJ defense.

Harsh Kadam stood out for Mumbai City, producing a series of remarkable saves to keep the scoreline respectable. His efforts frustrated MYJ attackers, including Kamran and Jay, who were denied in close-range situations.

As the final whistle blew, MYJ-GMSC celebrated their second major trophy, adding the Nadkarni Cup to their growing legacy. Head coach Vijith Shetty remarked before the game, “To end the year with a trophy will be a good feeling,” and his team delivered on that promise. Support staff Henry Picardo expressed pride in winning one of India’s oldest tournaments in their debut season, setting a benchmark for the future.

MYJ-GMSC’s victory marks a significant milestone, showcasing their rapid rise in Mumbai football while cementing their reputation as a force to be reckoned with.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest happenings in the world of Indian Football.