Mohun Bagan orchestrated a thrilling comeback, propelled by a stunning late goal – a “Gollazo” from Lalengmawia Ralte (better known as Apuia) – to secure their place in their third successive Indian Super League (ISL) final. Waiting for them in the summit clash is Bengaluru FC, the team against whom the Mariners suffered the biggest defeat (3-0) this season. This sets up a tantalising repeat of the ISL 2022-2023 Final where Mohun Bagan emerged victorious.
Apuia, whose arrival at Mohun Bagan from Mumbai City FC was met with considerable excitement, chose the perfect moment to net his much-awaited first goal in the green and maroon jersey. His late screamer, which flew past a fully stretched Albino Gomes and into the net during added time, sent the home crowd into raptures and booked Mohun Bagan’s ticket to the final.
Remarkably, in what has been an impressive season for Mohun Bagan, almost every regular outfield player had found the back of the net, with Apuia and goalkeeper Vishal Kaith being the exceptions. However, despite not scoring until last night, Apuia’s influence in midfield has been consistently impactful.
His importance was clearly highlighted by teammate Alberto Rodriguez, who noted the absence of Apuia in the first leg of the semi-final against Jamshedpur. “We were missing Apuia in Jamshedpur (second leg), and I think he scored the most important goal tonight,” Rodriguez rightly pointed out.
While midfielders, particularly defensive ones, often operate away from the spotlight typically reserved for strikers and defenders, Apuia has carved out a special place as a fan favourite and an indispensable figure in coach Jose Molina’s tactical setup. If Mohun Bagan’s impressive record of 15 clean sheets this ISL season deserves plaudits for their backline, then Apuia’s presence as a crucial defensive screen warrants equal recognition.
Apuia has been a constant presence in the midfield engine room this season, featuring in 21 matches and accumulating 1,852 minutes on the pitch. Boasting an impressive 83% passing accuracy, Apuia averages 47 passes per game, having successfully completed 844 passes overall. Defensively, he’s been robust, winning 106 duels, making 131 recoveries, 31 interceptions, and 17 clearances. With 1,259 touches this season, Apuia’s centrality to the team’s build-up is undeniable. Although not a frequent shooter, his 4 shots on target and 11 off target further emphasise his primary role as a deep-lying playmaker and ball-winner.
Reflecting on his euphoric celebration after the goal, Apuia admitted, “I was totally blank after the goal. I didn’t know how to celebrate, so I just started screaming,” capturing the raw emotion of the moment that sent the stadium into a frenzy.
Kolkata erupts in joy as Apuia stunner puts Mohun Bagan SG in ISL final following last-gasp win over Jamshedpur FC.
✍🏻 @Rahul_01Giri #MBSGJFC #MBSG https://t.co/n7n5ZVyHqw
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Apuia revealed a heartwarming reason behind his match-winning strike, dedicating it to his cousin. “I want to dedicate this goal to my cousin brother Freddy. He is the main reason I can perform like this. Without him, it would have been difficult for me to settle in Kolkata as this is my first time in this city, so he has always been a good friend of mine.”
When asked if this was the best goal of his career, Apuia cleverly sidestepped the direct comparison but readily acknowledged its significance. “If you have seen my first goal against Kerala Blasters, when I was playing for NorthEast United, that was perhaps better technically. But if you ask me which is the most crucial goal, then I will definitely pick this one.”
Adding to the significance of his contribution, Apuia revealed that he wasn’t even at full fitness, battling an ankle issue that cast doubts over his participation in both semi-final legs. Coach Molina wisely opted not to risk him in the first leg but placed his trust in the recovering midfielder for the crucial second encounter.
“At first, I thought I would miss both the semi-finals because of the injury I sustained during the India versus Bangladesh game. But with the help of the physio and treatment, it got better. However, even now, I am not 100 percent fit; there’s still pain in my ankle. But the coach had faith in me even though I wasn’t training fully with the team. That’s why I am very happy to repay the coach’s faith.”
Apuia’s resilience and match-winning contribution, despite carrying an injury, further cemented his status as a key player for Mohun Bagan as they set their sights on another ISL title. The stage is set for a thrilling final against Bengaluru, promising a captivating end to the season.
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