Kolkata: Mohun Bagan Super Giant displayed a masterful performance to secure their place in the final of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 season after defeating Odisha FC 2-0 at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata tonight. With this victory, the Mariners clinched the second leg of their semi-final fixture and advanced to the summit clash with a 3-2 aggregate scoreline.
The journey to the final for Mohun Bagan Super Giant was marked by resilience and determination, especially after suffering a 2-1 loss to Odisha FC in the opening leg of their last-four match in Bhubaneswar. However, the Mariners showcased their mettle in a dominant performance that left little opportunity for their opponents to counter.
The first breakthrough came in the 22nd minute when Jason Cummings capitalized on a goalkeeping error by Odisha FC custodian Amrinder Singh, netting the ball after Dimitrios Petratos’s initial long-range effort. Despite Odisha FC’s attempts to mount a comeback, a disciplined defensive display by Mohun Bagan Super Giant thwarted their efforts.
As the match approached its conclusion, Sahal Abdul Samad sealed the victory for Mohun Bagan Super Giant in added time of the second half. Manvir Singh’s precise cross found Sahal in the box, whose deflected header secured the team’s passage to the grand finale.
Coach Antonio Lopez Habas’ strategic acumen and the cohesive teamwork displayed by the Mariners throughout the match underscored their readiness for the upcoming final. With star players like Cummings and Petratos in fine form, Mohun Bagan Super Giant is poised to challenge for the ISL Cup with unwavering determination.
Key Performer of the Match: Jason Cummings (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)
Jason Cummings delivered a stellar performance, showcasing precision passing and clinical finishing. With an 85% pass accuracy and two goal-scoring chances created, Cummings played a pivotal role in securing victory for his team.
Looking ahead, Mohun Bagan Super Giant will face off against their opponent in the ISL 2023-24 final at their home ground, the Salt Lake Stadium, on May 4. Meanwhile, Odisha FC’s campaign concludes following their defeat in the semi-final fixture.
Brief Scores:
Mohun Bagan Super Giant 2 (Jason Cummings 22’, Sahal Abdul Samad 90+3’) – 0 Odisha FC