In a riveting encounter in the MFA Super Division, Mumbai Strikers SC rode on a 2nd half strike from Manav Dukhande to pick a hard-fought 1-0 win over a spirited FSI side.

The match kicked off with FSI dominating possession, showcasing their ball-control skills. However, the Strikers’ defense stood firm, thwarting every attempt FSI made to break through.

As the first half progressed, Mumbai Strikers gradually found their rhythm, testing the FSI defense with a few shots, though unable to breach their opponent’s goal. Amarjit came close to breaking the deadlock with a header narrowly missing the target, followed by Ishaan’s attempt from a distance that sailed over the bar.

The turning point came in the 58th minute when Manav Dukhande capitalized on a well-delivered ball from the middle, slotting it home with clinical precision to give Mumbai Strikers the lead.

FSI responded with renewed energy in the second half, almost finding the equalizer with a curling shot that forced an acrobatic save from Strikers’ goalkeeper Muhammed Shaheer. FSI continued to press, creating another opportunity from a dangerous free-kick that sailed across the box, but none of their strikers arrived in time to convert. In a subsequent corner by FSI’s Mayank, Aditya attempted a spectacular bicycle kick, but the ball narrowly missed the target.

As the match progressed, Mumbai Strikers adapted to FSI’s offensive push, with experienced players like Ravish, Deepak Kaushik, Rakesh Patne, and Ankush Singh showcasing their defensive prowess. Nirbhay Patpatia ventured forward, attempting couple of long-range shots that kept FSI’s goalkeeper Ashray on his toes.

In the end, Mumbai Strikers managed the game effectively, securing a crucial victory and three valuable points to kick off their campaign.

Article Courtesy: Football Counter (Read here)