Clinical Mohun Bagan Super Giant defeated Nepal's Machhindra FC 3-1 in the 2023-24 AFC Cup preliminary round two game at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata, on Wednesday.Starting the match in an aggressive style, Mohun Bagan rattled Machhindra FC's defence with waves of attacks. But Bishal Shrestha, the goalkeeper, stood tall between the Mariners' relentless attacks and the goal.Mohun Bagan would eventually break the deadlock in the 38th minute when Anwar Ali's header from a free-kick beat Bishal. Bagan would make it 2-0 in the second half when Jason Cummings made a sublime finish with an inside step, following an Anirudh Thapa pass, in the 59th minute. Even though Mohun Bagan defence was rarely tested, Machhindra FC reduced the margin in the 78th minute when Olawale's free-kick flew over Bagan's defence and beat goalkeeper Vishal Kaith.With Mohun Bagan having a slender lead, Anwar struck again in the 85th minute to seal the contest 3-1. Mohun Bagan will face off against Abahani Dhaka on August 22 in the AFC Cup south zone playoff. Follow highlights:
Clinical Mohun Bagan Super Giant defeated Nepal's Machhindra FC 3-1 in the 2023-24 AFC Cup preliminary round two game at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata, on Wednesday.Starting the match in an aggressive style, Mohun Bagan rattled Machhindra FC's defence with waves of attacks. But Bishal Shrestha, the goalkeeper, stood tall between the Mariners' relentless attacks and the goal.Mohun Bagan would eventually break the deadlock in the 38th minute when Anwar Ali's header from a free-kick beat Bishal. Bagan would make it 2-0 in the second half when Jason Cummings made a sublime finish with an inside step, following an Anirudh Thapa pass, in the 59th minute. Even though Mohun Bagan defence was rarely tested, Machhindra FC reduced the margin in the 78th minute when Olawale's free-kick flew over Bagan's defence and beat goalkeeper Vishal Kaith.With Mohun Bagan having a slender lead, Anwar struck again in the 85th minute to seal the contest 3-1. Mohun Bagan will face off against Abahani Dhaka on August 22 in the AFC Cup south zone playoff. Follow highlights: