Mohun Bagan vs Bengaluru FC, Durand Cup 2024: Mariners sail past Sunil Chhetri and Co. with 4-3 win on penalties

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In a thrilling Durand Cup semifinal clash, Mohun Bagan emerged victorious over Bengaluru FC in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in regulation time, setting up a final showdown against NorthEast United.

The match, held on August 27, 2024, was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Mohun Bagan showcasing their resilience and determination once again.

Bengaluru FC started the game on the front foot, creating several dangerous chances early on. Their efforts paid off in the 42nd minute when Sunil Chhetri calmly converted a penalty after Vinith was brought down in the box by Liston Colaco. Bengaluru took a 1-0 lead into halftime, leaving Mohun Bagan with much to do.

The second half began with Bengaluru doubling their lead in the 50th minute through Vinith, who capitalized on a defensive error to slot the ball into an empty net. Mohun Bagan, however, refused to give up. They gradually regained control of the game, and in the 68th minute, Petratos converted a penalty after Bheke fouled Manvir inside the box, bringing the score to 2-1.

The Mariners continued to push forward and were rewarded in the 87th minute when Anirudh Thapa scored a stunning long-range goal, leveling the match at 2-2. Despite both teams' efforts in the remaining minutes, the game headed into a penalty shootout.

In the shootout, Mohun Bagan held their nerve while Bengaluru faltered under pressure. Colaco, Manvir, and Petratos all converted their penalties for Mohun Bagan, while Vishal Kaith, the hero in Mariners' quarterfinal match against Punjab FC, saved crucial penalties from Halicharan Narzary and Aleksandar Jovanovic.

The final score in the shootout was 4-3 in favor of Mohun Bagan, sealing their place in the Durand Cup final. Mohun Bagan's resilience and Vishal Kaith's heroics were the defining features of this semifinal.

The Mariners now look ahead to their final clash against NorthEast United on August 31. For Bengaluru FC, it was a bitter end to a hard-fought match, but they will take solace in the fact that they pushed one of India's most storied clubs to the limit.