Hope United End MYJ’s Unbeaten Run with Dominant Playoff Victory

by Chandler D'silva April 7, 2026

MYJ saw their unbeaten run in the Mumbai Premier League come to an end after a 3-0 defeat to Hope United in a playoff clash at Cooperage Stadium.

Coming into the fixture, MYJ had been one of the standout sides in the competition, yet squad rotation ahead of their upcoming I-League 2 encounter meant several key players were rested. Hope United, on the other hand, capitalised on the opportunity and delivered one of their most complete performances of the season.

In a surprising shift from the usual pattern, Hope United controlled possession and dictated the tempo of the game, creating better attacking chances against a side known for its dominance. Their intent paid off in the 19th minute when Prawin Kumawat found the net with a well-placed effort at the near post to give Hope an early lead.

Hope continued to apply pressure and doubled their advantage in the 32nd minute after earning a penalty. Abhijit Tawhare stepped up and calmly converted, sending the goalkeeper the right way but placing it just beyond reach to make it 2-0 heading into halftime.

MYJ looked to respond after the break, knowing an early goal could shift momentum. However, Hope United remained resolute at the back, with their goalkeeper producing key saves to deny any comeback.

The game was effectively sealed in the 71st minute when Hope were awarded another penalty following a high challenge. Rishi converted confidently from the spot, once again finding the bottom corner to extend the lead to 3-0.

The result was overshadowed late on by an unfortunate injury to MYJ striker Himanshu Patil, who required immediate medical attention. The incident cast a somber note over the closing stages, with well wishes from both sides for his recovery.

The victory marks a strong return to form for Hope United, while MYJ register their first defeat of the season and concede three goals for the first time in the campaign. Focus now shifts to their upcoming I-League 2 fixture as they look to bounce back quickly.

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