Football, Super Cup 2024: Odisha FC reach final with win over Mumbai City FC

Reigning champions Odisha FC took another step towards defending their Super Cup crown, beating Mumbai City FC 1-0 in an ill-tempered yet action-packed semi-final on Thursday. They will now face East Bengal in the final on Sunday.

Mumbai City FC came flying out of the blocks, and almost had the lead in the second minute of the game.

From a corner, Jorge Pereyra rose highest at the near post to glance a header towards goal. Agonisingly, though, his attempt hit the inside of the post and bounced out, cleared to safety by Mourtada Fall.

It was as good as it got for Mumbai City in the first half though and soon enough Odisha were dictating the play, albeit without much effect. Almost all their attempts came via hopeful punts from distance, with Roy Krishna and Isak Vanlalruatfela coming closest to opening the scoring for the home side.

The goal finally came right on the edge of halftime, and though wholly deserved also seemed cruel to Mumbai City who had slowly edged their way back into the game.

Chasing after a through ball, Diego Mauricio was brought down by Phurba Lachenpa inside the box. The referee did not hesitate in pointing to the spot and Mauricio took the responsibility of giving...

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