Mohun Bagan Super Giant will now face arch-rivals East Bengal FC in a Kolkata Derby final on Sunday. Vishal Kaith turned hero once again, pulling off two crucial saves in the penalty shootout, to send Mohun Bagan Super Giant into the final of the Durand Cup as the Mariners prevailed 4-3 against NorthEast United after the second semifinal ended 0-0 after regulation time on Thursday.
The first shot on target came midway through the first half when Liston Colaco’s free-kick forced an excellent save from NorthEast United goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh. Moments later, Kiyan Nassiri opted to shoot from a tight angle rather than pick out his teammates inside the box, but his effort found the side-netting. With the wet conditions making it difficult for either side to play their preferred style, set-pieces became an important source of attacking opportunities, with the teams earning three corners each during this period. NorthEast United continued to create the better chances in a contest where clear-cut opportunities remained at a premium. However, his effort from inside the box found the side-netting. After both teams converted their first three penalties, the shootout remained finely balanced. Robin Yadav stepped up to take NorthEast United’s fourth kick but saw his effort brilliantly saved by Vishal Kaith.
In the end, both teams were content to try their luck in the penalty shootout as the match ended 0-0 at the end of regulation time.
Macarton Nickson came close after a well-worked move that began on the left flank before the ball was switched to the right and crossed into his path.
