AFC Cup: Mohun Bagan Super Giant beat Machhindra 3-1 in second Preliminary round

Reigning Indian Super League champions and one of Indian football’s oldest clubs, Mohun Bagan Super Giant defeated Nepali outfit Machhindra FC by 3-1 in AFC Cup preliminary round. The Indian champions were favourites to win the contest and their prospects further increased, thanks to home support at Salt Lake Stadium.

Moun Bagan’s latest signing, Anwar Ali proved to be the difference maker by not just opening the scoring but also helped in rounding up a decent night at Kolkata. Rated as one of India’s Top 3 CBs by his own manager Juan Ferrando, the 22-year-old bagged a brace in only his Debut match.

Anwar Ali meets Boumous’ corner with a towering header to put us ahead!#MBSG #JoyMohunBagan #আমরাসবুজমেরুন pic.twitter.com/3fcMrcjESb

— Mohun Bagan Super Giant (@mohunbagansg) August 16, 2023

He will be feeling lucky to first have the opportunity to get his debut in an Intercontinental club match and then to do what he did in his first 90 minute action for Mohun Bagan. Under the spot light and home support, Anwar thrived, defended hard and netted the first goal in 38′.

Hugu Boumos’ towering corner towards the far post met Ali’s head with Machhindra Keeper Bishal Shreshtha falling flat on his face while attempting to prevent the goal. Despite many missed chances, the home team scored again in 2nd half through Jason Cummings while Machhindra’s Pierre Messouke pulled one back in 78th minute.

FT | 🇮🇳 Mohun Bagan Super Giant 3️⃣-1️⃣ Machhindra FC 🇳🇵

Mohun Bagan Super Giant get past Machhindra FC and will face 🇧🇩's Abahani Limited Dhaka in the South Zone Playoff! pic.twitter.com/bVjGKxqlwF

— #AFCCup (@AFCCup) August 16, 2023

During the closing minutes of the game (86′), Anwar Ali once again headed home another set piece (free kick) this time from Dimitri Petratos to round off a 3-1 victory.

Up next, Mohun Bagan Super Giant will take on Bangladeshi side Abahani Dhaka in the following AFC Cup preliminary round also at Salt Lake Stadium. The AFC Cup preliminary rounds are a door way for all Asian FCs to reach the Continent’s Top-tier competition, AFC Champions League.

Mumbai City FC have already qualified for the next edition and could possibly play againts any of these 4 Saudi Pro League sides – Al-Nassr, Al-Ettifaq, Al-Hilal and Al-Fayha.