Mizoram to take on Punjab in U-21 National final today

Mizoram will eye their maiden title while last year’s semi-finalist Punjab will strive to better the record when the two teams cross swords in the final of Under-21 National Football Championship for Dutta Ray Trophy at Nehru stadium in Margao on May 16. Mizoram,who has been unbeaten in the tournament so far,will heavily count upon their ability to exchange short quick passes in the midfield to support their forwards to fire in unison and create pressure on the opponent.

In contrast,Punjab’s tall forwards will surely have an edge over Mizoram and their tendency to play the long passes may well put Mizoram in difficulties. Mizoram’s David Lalrinmuana who has been outstanding in the mid-field throughout the tournament,will supply passes to strikers duo C Zothansanga and T C Lalhuapzauv. Left winger Lalrinfela also has served the team well by leaving the rival defenders guessing at times with his fast pace and deceptive crosses.

On other hand,Punjab team consists mostly the academy footballers and have a solid defense comprising of Jatinder Singh,Gurtej Singh (Sr),Onka Singh and Lalchhuanmawia. The midfield will have to put their best performance to contain the free flowing game of the rivals if they desire to win tomorrow. Mizoram coach Benjamin L Khiangte said his boys have done well to overcome the challenges. “It was a long journey by the time we reached Goa,two of our boys fell sick and many of them looked tired but since we were placed in easy group in the pre-quarterfinals our boys were able to overcame the fatigue to reach this stage,” he said.