The last match of the day witnessed a commanding performance by CNS (Kandivli), who emerged victorious with a 2-0 win over St Xavier’s (Goregaon). The goals came from Riddhiman Singh and captain Anirvinya Sarkar, who each found the back of the net before and after the halftime whistle, securing the win for CNS in a gripping encounter that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
SVKM International (Vile Parle) made significant strides in the boys U-16 Ahmed Sailor knock-out rounds of the MSSA inter school football tournament with a deserved 1-0 victory against Bai Kabibai from Bora Bazaar. The match was held at the St Francis D’Assisi ground in Borivli on Wednesday, marking a thrilling day of youth football.
The match’s pivotal moment came courtesy of Maahir Shah, SVKM’s captain and standout player, who showcased his incredible individual skills to score the decisive goal in the 24th minute. Starting from the halfway line, Maahir effortlessly glided past a series of defenders on the right wing before outmaneuvering the goalkeeper and slotting the ball neatly into the net. This breathtaking run and finish were testament to his talent and determination, and it secured his team’s progression in the tournament.
In another exciting fixture, Vasant Vihar (Thane) also advanced to the next stage by conquering Cambridge (Kandivli) with a 4-2 victory via tie-breaker. Swarzi Patil, Palash Biwas, Dhruv Devarkar, and Rishabh Virkar were the heroes for Vasant Vihar, each contributing to the scoreline from the penalty spot. Despite a valiant effort from Cambridge, with goals scored by Aditya Tiwari and Nirvaan Bhatt, they could not overcome the pressure of the penalty shootout.
Returning to the final match of the day, CNS (Kandivli) and St Xavier’s (Goregaon) faced off in an intense battle. Riddhiman Singh broke the deadlock just before the halftime whistle, seizing an opportunity and driving the ball home, establishing an early lead for CNS. The second half saw continued efforts from both teams, but it was CNS captain Anirvinya Sarkar who sealed the win with a well-timed goal, affirming his leadership on the field and confirming CNS’s advantage with a 2-0 scoreline by the final whistle.
As the MSSA inter-school football tournament’s knock-out rounds continue, the stakes become higher and the competition more fierce, with numerous teams vying for the coveted trophy. The day’s performances highlighted both individual brilliance and team cohesion, elements critical for success in any sport.
The SVKM Bai Kabibai match was particularly noteworthy for the sheer determination and skill displayed by Maahir Shah.
. His goal in the 24th minute was not just any goal, but one that could easily be described as a moment of magic on the pitch. Observers noted his exceptional dribbling, speed, and finesse, which allowed him to evade multiple defenders effortlessly. His composure in front of the goalkeeper and the precise finish were nothing short of spectacular, earning applause from both supporters and neutrals alike.
Similarly, the tie between Vasant Vihar and Cambridge was a testament to the drama and unpredictability inherent in football. Both teams played with great spirit and determination, but it was the nerves of Vasant Vihar that held firm during the crucial penalty shootout. The precision and calmness exhibited by their penalty takers ensured a memorable victory, propelling them into the next round.
Meanwhile, CNS’s victory over St Xavier’s underscored the importance of strategic play and capitalizing on key moments. Riddhiman Singh’s goal came at a critical time, giving CNS the psychological edge as they went into halftime. Captain Anirvinya Sarkar’s goal in the second half was the icing on the cake, solidifying their position and ensuring a well-deserved win.
As the tournament progresses, anticipation grows for the upcoming matches. With the level of competition on display, it is certain that spectators are in for more thrilling football action. The journey for the U-16 Ahmed Sailor trophy continues, with each game bringing players closer to their dream of lifting the championship.
The MSSA inter-school football tournament not only provides a platform for showcasing young talent but also fosters sportsmanship and the spirit of competition. From the skillful play of Maahir Shah to the collective effort of teams like CNS and Vasant Vihar, the tournament is a celebration of youth football at its finest. As we look ahead, fans and players alike eagerly await the next round of matches, where new heroes will emerge, and the drama will undoubtedly continue to unfold.
