January 2, 2025
In a season filled with milestones, the Mighty Lions have added another feather to its cap by claiming the historic Nadkarni Cup.
This victory not only showcases the team's resilience and skill but also cements its position as a dominant force in Mumbai football.
A Season of Triumphs
Having won the Mumbai League in April 2024, we secured a spot in I-League 3 and subsequently achieved promotion to the 2025-26 I-League 2 season after resilient performances in Aizawl and Kolkata. Back home, the team continued its fine form by advancing to the second round of the Mumbai Premier League, setting the stage for their Nadkarni Cup campaign.
Navigating the Group Stages
The journey in the Nadkarni Cup began with a stroke of fortune as MYJ-GMSC received a bye in the first two rounds due to the withdrawal of Central Bank of India and a favorable draw. The group stage, however, was anything but straightforward.
In the opening group match against Maharashtra Oranje FC, Jay Bhavnani gave the Mighty Lions an early lead with a delightful dink over the keeper. Oranje responded just before halftime, leveling the score through Yogesh Kadam’s header. Despite dominating the second half, MYJ-GMSC had to settle for a 1-1 draw, keeping the race for the semifinals wide open.
The second group game against the newly formed Mumbay FC followed a similar script. Keegan Pereira’s stunning free-kick put MYJ-GMSC ahead, but a deflected volley by Mumbay FC’s Parag ensured a 1-1 stalemate. The result left us anxiously awaiting the outcome of Mumbay FC’s clash with Maharashtra Oranje FC. A 1-0 victory for Mumbay FC ensured that both of us advanced to the semifinals.
Semifinal Brilliance
In the semifinals, we faced Community Football Club India (CFCI) in a thrilling encounter. After a goalless first half, CFCI took the lead through Amrit’s precise free-kick in the 53rd minute. However, the Mighty Lions roared back, equalizing in the 83rd minute when Shamer Swamy’s low cross found Tanmay Talegaokar at the far post. Just five minutes later, Tanmay turned provider, delivering a pinpoint cross for Himanshu Patil, whose header was fumbled by the goalkeeper, allowing Allan Dias to score the decisive goal. The 2-1 victory secured MYJ-GMSC’s place in the final.
A Historic Final
The final against Mumbai City FC lived up to its billing as a blockbuster clash. Dominating possession in the first half, the Mighty Lions took the lead on the stroke of halftime when Palash Barber headed home a Keegan Pereira free-kick. Despite missed opportunities that could have extended the lead, the team’s defense, led by goalkeeper Sumeet Salian, held firm in the second half. Mumbai City FC’s young squad tested the Mighty Lions but couldn’t find a breakthrough. Meanwhile, Kamran Ansari and Umesh Peramba came close to doubling the lead. Ultimately, the Mighty Lions’ resilience paid off as they secured a 1-0 victory, lifting the Nadkarni Trophy for the first time in our history.
Gratitude and Focus Ahead
Winning this prestigious 117-year-old trophy is a moment of immense pride for MYJ-GMSC. The team’s name is now etched forever in Mumbai football history. The club extends heartfelt thanks to all the fans who turned up for the final; your unwavering support was instrumental in this triumph.
As the Mighty Lions bask in their well-deserved glory, our focus now shifts to the two remaining league games in January. With qualification to the next round already secured, the team aims to finish as group winners, continuing our journey of excellence.
