Indian Super Cup 2018: Aizawl FC vs Kingfisher East Bengal, 5 Talking Points
The first quarter-final of the Indian Super Cup took place at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneshwar as Aizawl FC and East Bengal clashed in an all I-League clash.
East Bengal secured their place in the top eight after a good performance in the pre-quarters against Mumbai City FC winning 2-1 after going a goal down.
Aizawl FC knocked out Indian Super League champions Chennaiyin FC in a closely contested match that was decided by a penalty shootout.
East Bengal relied on a late penalty scored by former Aizawl FC man Laldanmawia Ralte as they ensured their passage to the final four of the Super Cup in a match that saw Aizawl FC put on a strong defensive display.
East Bengal will face the winner of the tie between ISL franchises FC Goa and Jamshedpur FC.
#1 Mahmoud Al-Amna denied a close penalty call
East Bengal started the game on a strong note and attacked the Aizawl FC goal with a lot of intent.
They moved the ball across the midfield and did not allow the Mizoram side to get comfortable at the back.
One such promising attack was led by East Bengal's influential midfielder Mahmoud Al-Amna who cut in from the right flank into the box.
He was marked closely by Aizawl FC captain Alfred Kemah Jaryan who ended up tugging his shirt and bringing down the Syrian midfielder.
However, Khalid Jamil's side were unlucky to not get the penalty as the referee did not point to the spot despite a clear infraction inside the box by the Aizawl FC midfielder Jaryan.