Kolkata, August 27: In a thrilling semifinal clash at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) emerged victorious against Bengaluru FC (BFC) in a dramatic penalty shootout, securing their spot in the final of the Durand Cup 2024. The match, which ended 2-2 after regulation time, saw MBSG win 4-3 in penalties, continuing their streak of success in crucial knockout matches.
The intense encounter began with Bengaluru FC taking an early lead in the 43rd minute through their veteran captain, Sunil Chhetri, who calmly converted a penalty after Vishal Kaithās foul in the box. The first half ended with BFC ahead, putting MBSG under pressure as they sought to defend their title.
The second half saw Bengaluru FC doubling their lead in the 50th minute, thanks to Vinith, who capitalized on a swift counter-attack led by Jorge Pereyra Diaz. With the score at 2-0, MBSG faced an uphill battle to keep their Durand Cup dreams alive.
However, the Mariners displayed remarkable resilience, launching a comeback that began with Dimitri Petratos converting a penalty in the 68th minute after Manvir Singh was brought down in the box. The equalizer came in the 84th minute when Anirudh Thapa fired a right-footed shot from outside the box, finding the net after a slight deflection.
As the match progressed to a penalty shootout, the tension in the stadium was palpable. Both teams exhibited nerves of steel, but it was MBSGās Vishal Kaith who became the hero of the night. After both teams were tied 3-3 in penalties, Kaith made a crucial save off Jovanovicās kick, allowing MBSG to claim a 4-3 victory.
This win not only secured MBSGās place in the final but also mirrored their previous triumph over Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2022-23 final, where they also won on penalties. The Mariners will now look to carry this momentum into the Durand Cup final, where they aim to defend their title successfully.
Off the pitch, the match was also notable for the display of tifos by Mohun Bagan fans, demanding justice in the ongoing R.G. Kar case. The tifos were unfurled despite earlier restrictions imposed by the West Bengal government, which were later overturned by the Calcutta High Court.
As the final whistle blew, the MBSG camp erupted in celebration, while Bengaluru FC was left to rue their missed chances. The Mariners will now await their opponent in the final as they prepare for yet another shot at glory in one of the oldest football tournaments in the world.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant will now look forward to the Durand Cup 2024 final, aiming to add another trophy to their illustrious history.