Bhubaneswar: Mohun Bagan Super Giant marched into the semifinals of the Kalinga Super Cup 2025 with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Kerala Blasters FC at the Kalinga Stadium on Saturday. Fielding an all-Indian starting lineup with the sole exception of Portuguese defender Nuno Reis, the Mariners struck in each half to secure the win.
Sahal Abdul Samad opened the scoring for Mohun Bagan in the 22nd minute, finishing a slick move engineered by Salahudheen Adnan’s clever footwork and cross. Suhail Ahmad Bhat doubled the lead early in the second half, calmly tapping in Ashique Kuruniyan’s precise assist in the 51st minute.
Despite a late surge from Kerala Blasters, highlighted by Sreekuttan MS’s goal deep into stoppage time (90+4′), Mohun Bagan held firm, thanks largely to an outstanding performance from goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem. Dheeraj repeatedly frustrated the Blasters’ attackers, denying clear-cut chances to Jesús Jiménez, Kwame Peprah, and others.
Kerala Blasters dominated possession after conceding the first goal, with Noah Sadaoui and Mohammed Aimen creating opportunities, but they could not find a way past Dheeraj’s safe hands. Even as the Blasters ramped up pressure through set-pieces and open play, Mohun Bagan’s defensive resilience ensured they remained ahead.
Mohun Bagan SG, coached by Bastab Roy for the tournament, will now face the winners of the FC Goa vs Punjab FC quarterfinal in the semifinals on April 30.
The Mariners’ youthful side demonstrated composure beyond their years, and their progression keeps their hopes alive for yet another trophy this season.
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