Kolkata :Mohun Bagan Super Giant began their Durand Cup 2025 campaign in style with a commanding 3-1 win over Mohammedan Sporting Club at the Salt Lake Stadium on Wednesday. Liston Colaco emerged as the star of the show, netting twice and assisting another, even as the Mariners played the entire second half with ten men following Apuia Ralte’s first-half red card.
Colaco Shines With A Brace And An Assist
The high-octane Group B fixture opened with early attacking intent from both sides, but it was Liston Colaco who broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute. The winger curled in a stunning free-kick from just outside the box, leaving the Mohammedan goalkeeper rooted.
Colaco was in fine form throughout the match, and he capped his performance with a calm penalty conversion in stoppage time, sealing all three points for Mohun Bagan.
Apuia Sent Off Before The Break
The match took a dramatic turn in the 43rd minute when Mohun Bagan midfielder Apuia Ralte received a straight red card for a reckless challenge followed by an off-the-ball reaction. The decision left the Mariners a man down for the entire second half, forcing a tactical reshuffle.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Juan Ferrando’s men showed resilience and tactical discipline to maintain control of the contest.
Mohammedan Fight Back But Fall Short
Mohammedan Sporting found the equaliser shortly after the interval. In the 49th minute, Ashley Koli capitalised on a rebound after Vishal Kaith parried a long-range effort, slotting home from close range.
However, the parity was short-lived. In the 63rd minute, Colaco turned provider, weaving past defenders on the left flank before setting up Suhail Ahmad Bhat with a clever backheel. The young forward saw his initial shot blocked but made no mistake on the second attempt, restoring Mohun Bagan’s lead.
Ten-Man Mohun Bagan See Out Victory
Despite intense pressure from Mohammedan in the final stages, Mohun Bagan held their defensive shape well. In injury time, a quick counterattack led to a foul on Kiyan Nassiri inside the box. Colaco stepped up and coolly dispatched the spot-kick, completing his brace and securing a memorable win for the Mariners.
Strong Statement From The Mariners
The victory sends a strong message from Mohun Bagan Super Giant, who bounced back impressively following their loss to East Bengal in the Calcutta Football League. With key players stepping up and the squad showing depth even under pressure, the Mariners look poised for a deep run in the Durand Cup 2025.
Final Score:
Mohun Bagan Super Giant 3 (Liston Colaco 23′, 90+4′; Suhail Bhat 63′)
Mohammedan Sporting Club 1 (Ashley Koli 49′)
Red Card: Apuia Ralte (Mohun Bagan) – 43′
Discussion about this post