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I-League champions Aizawl FC registered a 2-1 win over Churchill Brothers in their Federation Cup – Group A match to book a semifinal berth at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack tonight.
Lalram Chullova’s 21st-minute penalty strike was cancelled out by Ghanefo Kromah’s 84th-minute goal from the spot as well, but Laldanmawia Ralte’s 89th-minute header settled the tie in Aizawl FC’s favour.
The match came to life in the 21st minute when Aizawl FC were awarded a penalty after Lalruatthra was brought down by Adil Khan inside the box, prompting the referee to point to the spot. Chullova stepped up and slotted the ball into the right corner to hand Aizawl FC the lead.
At the other end Aizawl FC keeper Albino Gomes kept out Brandon Fernandes’ shot a minute later as the Goan outfit searched for the equaliser.
Syrian import Mahmoud Al-Amna formed a trio with Jayesh Rane and Bayi Kamo upfront and his presence and ability to take the ball into the final third gave the Churchill Brothers defence a tough time.
It was not long for Churchill Brothers to test Aizawl FC’s defence, but the Mizoram side’s centre-back pairing held up to the task. Churchill Brothers enjoyed healthy spells of possession in the final third in the second half but could not make anything out of it.
Aizawl FC played cautiously and their midfield dropped back to make up numbers. That proved difficult for Churchill Brothers to handle and despite dominating possession, the Goan outfit were held at bay. In the 72nd minute Kromah latched onto a long ball and almost released his shot but was shrugged off by the Aizawl FC defence line.
Churchill Brothers were awarded a penalty in the 84th minute and Kromah stepped up to score with confidence to equalise.
But Laldanmawia Ralte spoiled Churchill Brothers’ party as his header in the 89th minute found the back of the net to give Aizawl FC the full three points and a place in the semifinals.
