AFC Cup 2022 Group D: I-League champions, Gokulam Kerala stun ATK Mohun Bagan in the opener

AFC Cup 2022 Group D: Hero I-League 2021-22 champions, Gokulam Kerala mark their their debut with a stunning victory over the group favorite ATK Mohun Bagan. The Mariners suffered a huge blow when Tiri went off due to ankle injury and the Malabarians struck four times in the second half to secure a remarkable victory. The Full-time score was 4-2 in favor of the Malabarians. Gokulam Kerala 4-2 ATK Mohun Bagan. So, let’s know more about the game as Gokulam Kerala stun ATK Mohun Bagan

Gokulam Kerala stun ATK Mohun Bagan, First Half:

Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Kirangan (Salt Lake Stadium) has hosted the match where the fans came in good numbers to support their home team. The Mariners had started the match on the front foot creating back-to-back chances down the channel. Liston Colaco’s inch perfect cross in the 4th minute was met by Roy Krishna but his effort from close range went over the bar. In the 16th minutes, ATK Mohun Bagan came lose yet again to break the deadlock but the resilient defence of Gokulam did enough to deny the Mariners. Within a matter of seconds, Roy Krishna’s left footer attempt hit the inner bar and the Malabarians breathed a sigh of relief. In the 39th minute, Gokulam went for a counter down the left and Tiri’s stopped Majcen to advance but the defender accidentally injured himself. This injury has turned out into one of the crucial moment of the game. However, both teams went goalless at the break.

Gokulam Kerala stun ATK Mohun Bagan, Second Half:

In the second half, the game was completely different as both teams launched attacks in big number. Eventually, ATK Mohun Bagan cracked when a perfect cut back found Luka Majcen inside the box and the slovenian gave the lead against the run of play. Within three minutes, captain Pritam Kotal equalised as the crowd erupted. In a matter of minutes, the Malabarians went to the lead as they were taking advantage of weak defense. Attacking the channel was the formula when Gokulam Kerala doubled the lead through Luka Majcen. In the 74th minute, Liston Colaco’s sublime free kick reduced margin only to go down yet again through Jithin MS 5 minutes later. It’s was 4-2 at full-time as the Mariners received huge setback. Gokulam Kerala Kerala would be overjoyed as they look unstoppable on the transitions.

So, this is all about the match. Meanwhile, the Mariners have two games left to play. The group d matches will continue on 21,and 24 May.