The Durand Cup 2023 kicked off with a flurry of excitement as Mumbai City FC and FC Goa showcased their dominance in their respective matches, leaving fans and enthusiasts in awe of their commanding performances.
Mumbai City FC, the reigning Indian Super League (ISL) champions, left no room for doubt as they triumphed over Jamshedpur FC with an emphatic 5-0 victory. From the opening whistle, MCFC displayed their intent to control the game.
In the 5th minute, Greg Stewart’s free-kick nearly found the net, setting the tone for the match. The pressure continued to mount, and Jorge Pereyra Diaz capitalized on a smooth exchange between Stewart and Vikram Pratap to give MCFC the lead. Diaz wasn’t finished, doubling the lead with a composed finish, showcasing his clinical touch in front of goal. Jamshedpur FC attempted to rally, but MCFC’s determination was unyielding. Alberto Noguera’s perfectly executed chip extended the lead just before halftime, leaving little hope for a Jamshedpur FC comeback. The second half saw no respite for the opponents as Dutchman Yoëll van Nieff marked his MCFC debut with a goal, courtesy of a precise corner kick. Vikram Pratap capped off MCFC’s impressive performance with a diving header, showcasing the team’s unity and attacking prowess. In a parallel display of dominance, FC Goa commenced their Durand Cup campaign with a resounding 6-0 victory over Shillong Lajong FC. Despite the absence of head coach Manolo Marquez, assistant coach Benito Montalvo steered the team to an exceptional win.
FC Goa’s new signings made an immediate impact, with Rowllin Borges, Victor Rodriguez, and Carlos Martinez all finding the back of the net. Moroccan forward Noah Sadaoui stole the spotlight with a remarkable hat-trick, announcing his arrival in style. The Gaurs’ fluid ball movement and clinical finishing were evident throughout the match, underscoring their determination to excel in the tournament. Despite a relaxed approach in the second half, FC Goa’s patience and strategic play allowed them to maintain control and secure a convincing victory.
