FC Bengaluru United pulled off a thrilling 3-2 win over a doughty ASC & Center FC to seal their place in the final of the Stafford Challenge Cup 2023. Despite a strong fightback from ASC, FC Bengaluru United held their nerve to keep their unbeaten streak in the tournament intact. Irfan Yadwad was the star for FC Bengaluru United with a hattrick of goals that propelled his team into the lead (42’, 52’, 54’). And FCBU goalkeeper Kabir Taufiq pulled off a tremendous save under pressure in the dying minutes of the game to help his team pull off an exciting victory.
The game began on a sluggish note with both teams struggling to hit the top gear from the get-go. FCBU created a few early half-chances but were unable to see them through. ASC & Center seemed to gain the ascendancy, looking more comfortable on the ball. However, against the run of play, FCBU were awarded a penalty in the 42nd minute after Irfan Yadwad was brought down in the box. The lanky striker did not disappoint, taking his tally to five goals in the tournament, continuing the strong form that he displayed in the BDFA Super Division.
Towards the end of the first half, FCBU began to show more intent: Vinay Pujary played a one-two with Selwyn Miranda and cut the ball back to the center, only to see the ASC goalkeeper make a strong save. FCBU began the second half brightly, controlling the game and the results were almost instantaneous – two minutes into the half, Yadwad scored a sharp header to get FCBU up 2-0. Within minutes, Yadwad took his tally up to seven goals – his third goal in the game getting FCBU up 3-0.
But ASC were not giving up without a fight – they got on the scoreboard soon after and were soon within sniffing distance of FCBU when a smart header got them to 2-3. Things got tense in the dying moments of the game with ASC being awarded a penalty after FCBU conceded a handball. But goalkeeper Kabir Taufiq held his nerve to pull off a super save to keep ASC at bay.
