ISL 2023-24: Mohunbagan enters ISL final, defeats Odisha FC by 2-0
Xtra Time Web Desk: In a thrilling match at home on 28th April, Sunday, Mohanbagan secured a 2-0 victory over Odisha, with goals from Jason Cummings and Sahal Abdul Samad. With a combined score of 3-2, Mohanbagan advances to the final. Initially trailing 1-2 in the first leg, they had already claimed the League Shield. Now, with a chance to secure a "double" with a win in the final, expectations were high.
Before facing Odisha, Mohanbagan knew they needed to win by at least two goals. The match started in their favour as they quickly put pressure on Odisha's defence. Within the first four minutes, Dimitri Petratos crossed into Odisha's box, where Cummings struck. However, the referee ruled it as a handball prior to Cummings' shot.
Subsequently, Odisha gradually regained composure and held their ground. Amarjit Singh almost scored for Odisha in the 11th minute, with a pass from Isaac. However, it was Anwar Ali's intervention that prevented Mohanbagan from conceding. Despite Jeric's questionable foul, the referee didn't show him a card.
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Mohanbagan continued to press, with Petratos attempting a shot from the left. Despite a left-footed attempt, Amarindar Singh made a critical save for Odisha. The first half ended with no goals.
In the second half, Odisha came back strong, putting Mohanbagan under pressure. They had a couple of opportunities, with Liston Colaco making a good header from the corner. However, Amarindar thwarted Odisha's efforts.
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As the clock ticked, Mohanbagan seized two crucial opportunities. First, Hector unleashed a shot from the right after receiving a pass from Sahal. However, his shot missed the target. Then, Manvir Singh received a pass from Sahal, but his shot also went wide.
