Saurabh Nikam, Hafiz Pathan star as IoT FC secure third consecutive win in the Mumbai Premier League

by Chittu Shetty November 21, 2024

Hafiz Pathan struck a brace as IoT FC continued their flawless run in the Mumbai Premier League, securing a commanding 3-0 victory over Iron Born FC to notch up their third consecutive win.

Hafiz Pathan delivered a standout performance with a second-half brace that sealed the result, as IoT now sits second in their group standings.

The match began with both teams going for goals but failing to convert chances. Iron Born, despite their win less record in MPL so far, played with grit, threatening IoT on multiple occasions. Alankrit Negi came closest for Iron Born with a thunderous strike from distance that was miraculously tipped onto the post by IoT goalkeeper Prathmesh.

IoT responded through their captain Kaif Khan, whose towering header off a Hafiz Pathan cross narrowly missed the target. The opening half was characterized by missed opportunities and some resolute defending, with Iron Born’s young skipper Dipesh Rawat marshaling his side’s backline effectively.

The second half told a different story. IoT capitalized on their strength in set pieces to break the deadlock in the 56th minute. Saurabh Nikam rose highest to meet a curling corner, delivering a precise header to put his team in front. His aerial ability, Saurabh once again proved pivotal in such situations with giving opener to IoT through set piece.

IoT doubled their lead seven minutes later, with Hafiz Pathan stepping up. After an initial save by Iron Born goalkeeper Aayush, the ball remained in play. Pathan’s sharp instincts saw him pounce on the loose ball, rifling a half-volley into the net.

The moment of the match came in the 83rd minute. Hafiz Pathan, receiving the ball at the edge of the box, unleashed a powerful strike that Aayush could only partially deflect as it ricocheted into the goal, sealing a commanding win for IoT.

Brief Score: India On Track FC 3 (Saurabh Nikam 56’, Hafiz Pathan 63’, 83’) – 0 Iron Born FC

IoT’s victory reinforces their credentials as serious contenders in the league, with Hafiz Pathan leading the charge. For Iron Born FC, the defeat adds to a challenging campaign, leaving them at the bottom of the table in stark contrast to their strong Nadkarni Cup showing earlier this week.

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