This is the first time since 2009 that the two arch-rivals Abahani-Mohammedan met in the final of the Federation Cup. Like the service, this time also the result did not come in extra time after the scheduled time. Football fans across the country have to watch the penalty shootout to decide the winner.
But compared to the service, the excitement of this final has spread a thousand times. It will happen, because the 14-year-old emotions have been completely poured out by the supporters of both parties. And the footballers of both teams have made that opportunity. A total of eight goals were scored in the match.
In that final 14 years ago, neither team saw a goal in the extra 30 minutes after the allotted time. This time the picture is completely different. Abahani went ahead with two goals in the first half. The azure-blue fans burst into stadium cheers. Many people assume that Abahani is going to get an easy victory.
But the picture of the second half changes. Mohammedan equalized with two goals scored by Suleiman Diabat. But Abahani took the lead again. A few minutes before the end of the match, Suleiman, the star footballer of Mali, made the team equal again by completing his hat-trick. 90 minutes ended with a score of 3-3.
Suleiman gave Mohammedan the lead by scoring his fourth goal in the first half of extra 30 minutes. However, everyone knew that the party that was going to collapse was not Abahani. Before the end of 120 minutes, the game ended 4-4 when Rahmat Shah scored from a great shot. As a result, the match became a tiebreaker. Abahani’s two Brazilian goals were blocked by Mohammedan’s goalkeeper. 4-3 victory is confirmed for the white and black jersey holders.
And with this win, Mohammedan Sporting Club has secured their 11th title in the Federation Cup. However, in terms of winning the highest title, their position is still number two. There is a chance to win more than one championship at the top. They won a total of 12 times.
(30May/MM)