Mohun Bagan Super Giant Opens AFC Cup 2023-2024 Campaign with Convincing Win

Mohun Bagan Super Giant began their AFC Cup 2023-2024 journey in style, securing a resounding 4-0 victory over a 10-man Odisha FC in Group D at the Kalinga Stadium on Tuesday. This match showcased Dimitri Petratos’ brilliance, who netted twice, while Sahal Abdul Samad and Liston Colaco contributed with goals.

Lively Start

The contest ignited with energy right from the start, as Mohun Bagan had the first goal-scoring opportunity in the seventh minute. Manvir Singh’s deflected shot forced Odisha FC’s goalkeeper, Amrinder Singh, into making a crucial save. Odisha, making their AFC Cup debut, thought they had taken the lead in the 13th minute when Carlos Delgado threaded a through ball to find Roy Krishna, who converted from close range. However, their celebrations were short-lived as the goal was disallowed.

Mohun Bagan’s Dominance

Despite Odisha FC boasting Ahmed Jahouh, Mourtada Fall, and Roy Krishna in their lineup, they struggled to contain Mohun Bagan’s advances. Dimitri Petratos, Armando Sadiku, and Hugo Boumous constantly threatened to break the deadlock.

Odisha FC’s troubles compounded when they were reduced to 10 men in the 42nd minute after Mourtada Fall received his second yellow card. However, the Super Cup winners held their ground, and the first half ended with the score level at 0-0.

Mohun Bagan’s Quickfire Goals

Mohun Bagan wasted no time capitalizing on their numerical advantage. Just one minute into the second half, Sahal Abdul Samad found the back of the net from inside the box, courtesy of a well-timed layoff by Manvir Singh. The opening goal provided the much-needed spark for Mohun Bagan.

Petratos, showing remarkable awareness, added to Odisha’s misery as he capitalized on a rebound following Samad’s blocked effort, extending Mohun Bagan’s lead to 2-0.

Despite their best efforts to claw their way back into the match, Odisha’s defense faltered, leading to two quick goals for Mohun Bagan. In the 79th minute, Manvir Singh orchestrated a well-timed pass for Liston Colaco, who headed home from close range. Petratos completed his brace with a delightful lob over Amrinder Singh after Moirangthem Thoiba’s poor back pass.

Next Fixtures

Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s next match will see them host Maziya SandRC on October 2, while Odisha FC will travel to Bangladesh to take on Basundhara Kings on the same date.

Stay tuned for more exciting AFC Cup action as Mohun Bagan Super Giant continues their quest for glory!