Mohun Bagan Super Giant secured their place in the semi-finals of the Durand Cup 2023 with a remarkable 3-1 triumph over Mumbai City FC at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Sunday. The quarter-final match showcased an exciting display of football, with Jason Cummings (9′) giving Mohun Bagan SG the initial lead, followed by Jorge Diaz (28′) equalizing for Mumbai City FC. The hosts quickly regained their advantage through Manvir Singh (30′), and Anwar Ali (63′) sealed the victory with another goal.
The encounter began with Mohun Bagan SG displaying a positive and aggressive stance. Their efforts were rewarded early on when they were awarded a penalty after Mumbai City FC’s goalkeeper, Phurba Lachenpa, fouled Jason Cummings. The Australian forward confidently converted the penalty to put Mohun Bagan SG in the lead. The match continued with high-paced action, as both teams strived to create scoring opportunities.
Mumbai City FC managed to level the scores at the half-hour mark. Alberto Noguera delivered a well-placed pass to Jorge Diaz, who capitalized on a tap-in to bring Mumbai City FC back into contention. However, Mohun Bagan SG’s response was swift, as Hugo Boumous delivered a precise cross from a corner kick. Manvir Singh rose above the defense to head the ball into the net, restoring Mohun Bagan SG’s lead.
The second half maintained the intensity, with both sides attempting to break the deadlock. Mohun Bagan SG extended their advantage when Ashique Kuruniyan delivered a skillful looping cross, met by Anwar Ali’s accurate header. Mumbai City FC made valiant efforts to mount a comeback and posed threats to the opposition’s goal, but they struggled to truly test Mohun Bagan SG’s goalkeeper, Vishal Kaith, in the latter part of the game.
With this victory, Mohun Bagan SG secured a place in the tournament’s semi-final. The team’s previous semi-final appearance was in the 2019 edition of the Durand Cup. In the upcoming semi-final clash, Mohun Bagan SG will face an undefeated FC Goa side, promising an intense and captivating match for football enthusiasts.
