Mohammedan Sporting Dominates Baghpat FC in Four-Goal Durand Cup Opener
Mohammedan Sporting secured a commanding 4-0 win against Baghpat FC at Salt Lake Stadium. A late offensive surge, led by a Fanai brace, dismantled the Banaras-based side's defensive efforts.
Early Breakthrough and Defensive Resistance
Mohammedan Sporting initiated their 135th Durand Cup journey with a decisive victory at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium on July 27, 2026. Facing Baghpat FC of Banaras, the home side controlled the tempo from the opening whistle. Fardin Ali Molla broke the deadlock in the 29th minute, providing Mohammedan with a 1-0 lead. Despite the deficit, Baghpat maintained a disciplined defensive structure throughout the remainder of the first half, preventing the scorecard from widening before the interval.
Late Surge Seals the Win
The tactical landscape shifted in the second half as Mohammedan coach Mehrajuddin Wadoo introduced fresh legs to intensify the offensive pressure. These changes fractured Baghpat's resistance, leading to three goals in the final quarter of the match.
- 73rd Minute: Substitute Lalremsanga Fanai doubled the advantage shortly after entering the pitch.
- 80th Minute: Israfil Dewan extended the lead further, effectively ending the contest as a competition.
- 84th Minute: Fanai completed his brace, capitalizing on a long-range delivery from goalkeeper Subhadip Pandit and finishing a solo run.
The 4-0 result positions Mohammedan Sporting strongly in the tournament standings. While Baghpat FC displayed early resilience, they ultimately struggled to contain the Kolkata side's superior attacking depth and second-half adjustments.
Source: The Hindu — Football
