Kolkata: The first quarterfinals of the 130th edition of Durand Cup resulted in a 1-0 victory for Mohammedan SC over reigning champions Gokulam Kerala to find their spot in the semifinals in front of a limited amount of viewers at Vivekananda Yuvabharati Krirangan.
Former Kerala Blasters player, Marcus Joseph scored the lone, winning goal of the game, as the Black Panthers cause the side from the south a major upset.
Although Gokulam Kerala have been the top-scoring team in the round robin stages, scoring 10 goals, with seven in their penultimate game, the midfield of Vincenzo Alberto’s side lacked the flair against local Mohammedan SC.
The chances and the goalmouth action were scarce for both teams. However, the deadlock was broken at the 44th minute, when Marcus found the net after a goal was ruled out due to offside in the giving the Black Panthers the much-needed upper hand.
The second half did not notice any action of redemption from Gokulam as Mohammedans held strongly to their advantage. Although the last minutes were intense, the match ended with the scoreline in favor of Mohammedan.
On the other hand, the tie between FC Bengaluru United and Army Reds was canceled after the latter pulled out owning to some player(s) being tested positive for contracting the COVID -19. FC Bengaluru inevitably qualified for the semis.
The Semifinal between FC Bengaluru United and Mohammedan Sporting Club is supposed to be held at Vivekananda Yuvabharati Krirangan on Monday, September 27 with 50% spectators. The tickets for the tie will be available at East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, and Mohammedan SC grounds.
