With the sun setting in the backdrop, India’s young blood continued to toil on the pitch, chasing a coveted spot in the final of the nation’s largest U-21 competition — the Reliance Foundation Development League. And it was the boys in white, Classic FA (CFA), who rose to the occasion beating Goa FC comprehensively (3-0) on the night to secure their spot in the final.
Applying pressure right from the outset, CFA’s dream run in the tournament showed no signs of slowing down. Outclassing their opponents in every department, the team was relentless. With dynamic runs down both flanks from Khullakpam Zahir Khan and Ningthoukhongjam Rishi Singh, the Gaurs were constantly kept on the back foot.
Although Goa came agonisingly close to opening the scoring, it was CFA’s No. 8, Punit Thangjam, who found the breakthrough. In the 30th minute, a corner kick led to a scramble in the box, allowing CFA to push the ball to the edge of the area, where Punit lashed it home with authority. Just seven minutes later, the scoreline read 2-0 in favour of CFA, as MD Arbash — who had been attempting to score directly from corners throughout the first half — finally succeeded. His curling effort left the opposition goalkeeper helpless and frustrated.
Goa tried to rally in the final five minutes of the first half, showing signs of intent, but CFA’s disciplined defence held firm.
In the second half, the Gaurs came out with renewed urgency, consistently pressing high in an attempt to break through. But CFA’s backline stood tall, maintaining shape and composure, denying the opposition even a sniff at goal. Goa FC, who had finished second behind Jamshedpur FC in the national group stage, appeared devoid of ideas, lacking the creativity needed to unlock CFA’s resolute defence.
Despite enjoying a lion’s share of possession after the interval, Goa failed to carve out any real threat, as CFA’s defenders marked their men with precision and ease.
The final nail in the coffin came in the 78th minute, when Rishi pounced on a defensive error, controlled the loose ball, and charged forward unchallenged before calmly slotting it past the ‘keeper.
CFA marched into the final , where they will face Mohun Bagan Super Giant on Monday — a couple of days after the Indian Super League final where Bagan’s senior side will face Bengaluru FC for the title.