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In a crucial encounter during the Santosh Trophy group stage, Maharashtra faced off against Railways at the Golden Jubilee Stadium in Yupia, Arunachal Pradesh. The significance of securing three points was palpable for both teams, considering their closely contested positions in Group B.
Throughout the encounter, the teams remained closely matched on the Group B table. Early on, Maharashtra had a golden opportunity, but they couldn’t capitalize on it, missing a chance to convert it into a goal. Railways, on the other hand, seized a breakthrough in the 10th minute as Shabaz delivered a precise long throw-in, allowing Subrata Murmu to score effortlessly and claim the lead.
Undeterred, Maharashtra persisted in their pursuit of an equalizer, orchestrating attacks with patience. At the other end, Nuruddin’s run down the right lane culminated in a shot, skillfully collected by goalkeeper Malhar Mohol. For Maharashtra, Himanshu Patil’s attempt on the left post narrowly missed, adding suspense to the match.
The 42nd minute witnessed chaos in the box, leading to Advait Shinde finding Nikhil Kadam who slotted home the equalizing goal.
The second half saw both teams intensifying their attempts on goal, with Railways creating a tumultuous situation in the box in the 47th minute. Keeper Malhar’s valiant save was overshadowed by Anil Kisku’s missed opportunity.
As the teams relentlessly sought a decisive goal, the match became a captivating spectacle. Azfar Noorani missed a crucial chance for Maharashtra, while Subrata Murmu’s persistence tested the opposition’s defense. Rizwan’s nasty tackle at the edge of the box forced Maharashtra to play with 10 men, adding further drama to the game.
Later in the game, Railways capitalized on a free-kick, with Rajesh S. heading the ball into the net, securing a 2-1 lead. The closing minutes saw heightened intensity, with Anil Kisku squandering additional chances and Railways adopting a defensive approach. Ultimately, the match concluded with Railways emerging victorious in a hard-fought battle.
Maharashtra next face Delhi on February 29th, in a must win game, and will look to secure all three points to keep themselves in the semi-final race.
