Mohun Bagan vs Ravshan Kulob: MBSG Begin AFC Champions League Two Campaign With Goal-Less Draw

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Mohun Bagan SG began their AFC Champions League Two campaign with a frustrating 0-0 draw against Tajikistan's Ravshan Kulob at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on September 18.

Despite dominating possession, the hosts failed to create enough scoring opportunities and were unable to break down a resolute Ravshan defense, extending their winless run to three matches.

The match saw Mohun Bagan controlling the first half with 66% possession but struggling to convert that dominance into clear-cut chances. Ravshan's compact defensive shape, often resembling a narrow 5-3-2 formation, effectively nullified the home side's attacking threats. While Mohun Bagan had a few promising moments, such as a counter-attack involving Jason Cummings, they failed to register a single shot on target in the first half.

Ravshan, on the other hand, looked dangerous on the counter. They forced Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith into a crucial save in the 27th minute when forward Muhammadjon Rahimov unleashed a shot following a swift break from the left flank that saw Kojo Matic set him up. Mohun Bagan's midfield duo of Deepak Tangri and Anirudh Thapa tried to control the tempo, but Ravshan's disciplined defense and aggressive pressing frustrated the hosts.

The second half witnessed a more proactive approach from Mohun Bagan. Jason Cummings and Dimitrios Petratos found themselves in goal-scoring positions but failed to capitalize. In the 75th minute, Cummings squandered a golden opportunity, failing to lob the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper Yevhen Hrytsenko. Petratos, too, was denied late in the game when his shot was blocked by Hrytsenko, who had an outstanding night.

Mohun Bagan thought they had finally broken the deadlock in the 90th minute when Petratos slotted home a deflected shot from Cummings, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Greg Stewart's late introduction added creativity to the Mariners' attack, leading to a flurry of chances in stoppage time. However, Ravshan's defense held firm and the match ended in a goalless stalemate.

The draw leaves Mohun Bagan SG with much to ponder as they prepare for their next matches, including a trip to Iran to face Tractor FC on October 2. Before that, they will turn their focus to the Indian Super League, facing NorthEast United FC and Bengaluru FC in the coming days.