ISL 2024-25: Mohun Bagan starts new year with commanding 3-0 win over Hyderabad FC
Xtra Time Web Desk: Mohun Bagan Super Giant began the New Year with a dominant 3-0 victory over Hyderabad FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) clash at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Thursday. Goals from Jason Cummings and Tom Aldred, along with an own goal from Stefan Sapic, ensured the Mariners stayed atop the points table. The game saw a full-capacity crowd, thanks to free ticket distribution.
Early Errors Set the Tone
The match began with both teams showcasing nerves, especially the goalkeepers. Mohun Bagan’s Vishal Kaith narrowly avoided a costly mistake with a last-minute clearance from a back pass. However, Hyderabad’s Arshdeep Singh wasn’t as fortunate. In the 9th minute, Liston Colaco’s sharp play on the left created chaos in Hyderabad's defense. A parried shot from Sahal Abdul Samad hit defender Stefan Sapic’s face and deflected into the net, gifting Mohun Bagan the lead.
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Missed Opportunities for the Mariners
Anirudh Thapa’s clever interception in the 17th minute set up Jamie Maclaren, but the Australian forward’s shot struck the post, letting Hyderabad off the hook. The Mariners continued to create chances but were let down by miscommunication and missed passes, particularly by Liston, who struggled to deliver decisive balls.
Aldred's Header Doubles the Lead
The Mariners found their second goal in the 41st minute. After earning a free-kick just outside the box, Liston’s initial effort was saved, but he quickly regained possession and sent a cross into the box. Tom Aldred capitalized on defensive missteps to head the ball in. Despite an initial offside call, a review confirmed the goal, as Sapic’s touch before Aldred’s header kept the play onside.
Cummings Seals the Victory
Mohun Bagan extended their lead soon after halftime. In the 51st minute, Jamie Maclaren’s precise through ball found Jason Cummings, who finished with a superb left-footed strike. The Mariners pushed for more goals, but inaccuracies in the final third, particularly from Liston, prevented further scoring.
Hyderabad’s Late Push Denied
Hyderabad made several substitutions to inject energy into the game, with Ayush Adhikari, Allan Paulista, Muhammed Rafi, and Abijith PA coming close to making an impact. However, Mohun Bagan’s defense held firm. In the 84th minute, Vishal Kaith produced a brilliant save to deny Allan Paulista from close range, preserving the clean sheet.
In added time, Abijith PA had a golden opportunity to score, but his shot from six yards out went wide, ensuring the Mariners walked away with all three points and a clean sheet.
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Conclusion
The victory highlighted Mohun Bagan’s superiority and resilience, as they adapted well to Hyderabad’s late surge. With this win, the Green and Maroon Brigade continue to assert their dominance in the ISL, much to the delight of their passionate supporters.
