In a Thursday afternoon showdown in the MFA Super League Group C, IoT FC displayed dominance, securing a convincing 4-1 victory over Mumbai Strikers SC.
Sebastian Almeida, Leisamba, Karthik Bele, and Sanus Rajan found the net for IoT FC, while Kishan Dubey scored a consolation goal for MSSC.
The game kicked off with MSSC controlling the early proceedings, creating a significant chance from a set-piece. Ravish D’souza’s inviting delivery into the box found Manav Dukhande, who headed toward goal, but IoT’s goalkeeper Vansh made a crucial save to keep the score at 0-0.
As the match progressed, India on Track gained momentum, with Karthik Bele nearly breaking the deadlock. He beat the offside trap before hooking the ball past the onrushing keeper. However, his effort was denied by the woodwork. Karthik continued to threaten, forcing a brilliant save from MSSC’s goalkeeper Shaheer Muhammed with a pinpoint free-kick.
The breakthrough for India on Track came when Sebastian Almeida headed home a pinpoint cross from Rajan in a corner situation, giving IoT the 1-0 lead. At halftime, IoT was forced to make a substitution in goal due to a concussion to their keeper.
The second half saw India on Track intensifying their attack. A penalty was awarded early in the half, expertly converted by Leisamba, extending the lead to 2-0. Moments later, Karthik Bele’s brilliant run on the wings resulted in him sliding the ball past the keeper, making it 3-0.
Despite Mumbai Strikers’ attempts to stage a comeback, they were wasteful in front of goal, missing opportunities from close range. IoT sealed the game with substitute Anurag PC setting up Rajan for the fourth goal, ending any hopes of a comeback.
In the dying moments, MSSC managed to bag a consolation goal when Armaan Shaikh capitalized on a defensive lapse, converting a cross from the right wing to make it 4-1. IoT controlled the game afterward, securing their fourth consecutive victory.
The win keeps IoT FC’s winning streak alive, positioning them as a formidable force in the MFA Super League. The Mumbai Strikers will look to regroup and bounce back in the upcoming fixtures.
FT: India On Track 4 – 1 Mumbai Strikers SC