Bagan to meet EB in semis

In fact, Bhutia’s absence proved to be a blessing in disguise for teammates as Lalawmpuia and Ishfaq Ahmed as they made most of the opportunities to score two breathtaking goals to make their presence felt.

Howver, the Bagan skipper’s absence seemed to have upset Viva Kerela as they had come up with some plans to challenge the crack outfit, particularly after causing the biggest upset in the tournament when they overcame Air India in the first round. What the Kerala team needed on the day was a Plan B. Unfortunately, they didn’t have one and with their one-dimensional play it was going to be always difficult against Bagan — without or without Bhutia.

Jose Barreto who, despite looking off clolour on the day, provided the lead for Bagan in the 15th minute. The game picked momentum in the 38th minute when Ishfaq surprised with a swift solo move, taking the ball from half-line to lob it over the Viva custodian to stretch the lead. Viva pulled one back through Sajesh P but Bagan retaliated through PC Lalawmpuia to book their spot in the semi-finals.

Later, East Bengal ended the title hopes of JCT as the visitors registered a 3-2 win in the second quarter finals to set up a semi-final clash. Sur Kumar Singh put the Kolkata outfit in lead in the 15th minute but it was two strikes from Edmikson Marques that sealed the fate of JCT. For the hosts, Eduardo Escobar and Renedy Singh scored.