AIZAWL FC HAVE QUALIFIED for the grand finale of the Independence Day Football Tournament 2022.
On 15th August, at the Mizoram capital's famed Lammual Ground, they will take on Mizoram Police FC for the prestigious championship.
Both the semi-final matches were held today, in the middle of some severely rainy weather. The first semi saw Mizoram Police face FC Venghnuai. Mizoram Police took a lead through Lalnunsanga but Venghnuai got even towards the end of the first half via Lalrammuanpuia's goal. In the second half, MPFC got ahead again courtesy R. Malsawmtluanga. But they failed to hold onto their lead and deep into added time, Vanlalthanga scored for FC Venghnuai, making it 2-2.
The match ultimately went into penalties where the experienced Mizoram Police side prevailed 4-2.
In the second semi-final, Aizawl FC took on local rivals Chhinga Veng FC. The game was one of the tightest in the tournament as both teams, evenly matched, gave it their all amidst pouring rain, refusing to give up an inch. The goalless game looked destined for Extra Time, but Jeremy Laldinpuia finally broke the deadlock 91 minutes into the contest.
The solitary goal was enough to get Aizawl FC over the line, into the final.
Aizawl FC, who are trying out several new young players in their squad ahead of their Mizoram Premier League and I-League campaigns, now have a chance to give their season an early boost by winning the Independence Day Cup. But Mizoram Police, who have been a powerhouse in the state's football competitions for many decades, will be a tough opponent to contend with come Monday.