Daijiworld Media Network - Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar, Apr 26: Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s young brigade defeated Kerala Blasters FC 2-1 in the quarterfinals of the Kalinga Super Cup 2025 on Saturday, sealing a spot in the semifinals. Fielding an all-Indian squad except for Portuguese defender Nuno Reis, the ISL Shield and Cup-winning Mariners scored through Sahal Abdul Samad in the 22nd minute and Suhail Ahmad Bhat in the 51st. Despite a late goal from Sreekuttan MS deep into stoppage time, the Blasters could not turn the tide.
In a match that started at a cautious tempo, it took 20 minutes for the first real chance. Mohun Bagan SG struck with their first meaningful attack as Salahudheen Adnan danced past Naocha Singh and delivered a pinpoint cross into the box. Sahal Abdul Samad capitalised with slick movement, dodging Ruivah Hormipam and lifting the ball over goalkeeper Sachin Suresh to put the Mariners ahead.
Kerala Blasters responded with urgency, dominating possession and creating a series of chances. Noah Sadaoui attempted a long-range effort reminiscent of his goal against East Bengal but was denied by Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh. The Blasters grew more dangerous from set-pieces, with short corners creating moments of panic in the Bagan defence, but Dheeraj and his backline stood firm.
As halftime approached, Mohammed Aimen curled a shot over the bar after cutting in from the left, but Kerala failed to find the equaliser before the break.
The second half had barely begun when Mohun Bagan SG doubled their advantage. After Salahudheen was denied by a brilliant save from Sachin, Ashique Kuruniyan orchestrated the next move with a dazzling run down the left, serving a perfect cross that Suhail Ahmad Bhat finished with ease to make it 2-0.
Kerala Blasters fought back with determination, but Dheeraj Singh stood as a formidable wall. Jesús Jiménez squandered two golden chances within minutes, first volleying over the bar and then dragging a shot wide after a clear run at goal. Substitute Kwame Peprah added to the pressure, but Dheeraj kept out his close-range efforts.
In the dying moments, a desperate Blasters attack finally bore fruit when Jiménez played in Sreekuttan MS, who smashed his shot past Dheeraj in the 94th minute. However, it was only a consolation as Mohun Bagan SG held firm to clinch a hard-fought win.
Bastab Roy’s side will now face the winner of the clash between FC Goa and Punjab FC in the semifinal scheduled for April 30.