Aizawl FC lose to Chanmari FC in Independence Day Football Tournament
AIZAWL FC SUFFERED a massive loss to local rivals Chanmari FC at the Independence Day Celebration Football Tournament today.
Playing each other at the Lammual Ground in a Group A encounter, the former I-League champions got off to a great start when Joe Zoherliana found the net just 10 minutes into the match.
But Chanmari FC maintained a steady approach to the game and soon found the equalizer, through Lalnunzama, at the 20 minute mark.
The goal appeared to give Chanmari's midfield a sudden boost as they rapidly escalated their attacks, creating multiple chances within quick succession. It wasn't long before they took the lead, when Abel Lalruatfela managed to find the net just minutes later.
Near the half hour mark, Chanmari furthered their lead with Lalmuankima Haunhar getting one past the Reds' keeper.
Aizawl FC played out a defensive game for the rest of the half to stop the torrent of attacks. And in the second half, they took a similarly measured approach, unwilling to risk conceding extra goals, knowing despite the loss they were likely to finish in the top two.
The match ended 3-1 in favour of Chanmari FC, but that wasn't enough to take them to the semis. As the top two clubs in the group, Aizawl FC and Electric Veng FC will progress to the semi-finals of the popular tournament that's colloquially referred to as "Independence Day Cup" by local fans.
The high profile grand finale will be played on 15th August, and it's considered to be a highly anticipated staple showpiece event in the Mizo football.
