Zinc Football Academy Secures Dramatic Draw Against Mumbay FC in I-League 3
Exciting Match Ends in 2-2 Draw
In an exhilarating encounter at the SAI Turf Ground in Imphal, Zinc Football Academy (ZFA) managed to earn a 2-2 draw against Mumbay FC during their second Group B match of the I-League 3. The game featured a thrilling late equalizer that capped off a fiercely contested battle.
The match tested the resilience of ZFA, especially as Mumbay FC leveraged their experience and physicality to control the early stages. Their strategy, which relied on long balls and winning second balls, posed significant challenges for ZFA right from the start.
Recognizing the need for a tactical shift, ZFA transitioned from a 4-1-4-1 formation to a 4-4-2 setup around the 15-minute mark. This adjustment aimed to apply higher pressure and disrupt Mumbay FC's center-backs during their build-up play, leading to a more balanced contest.
Despite opportunities for both teams, the first half concluded without any goals. However, ZFA took the lead shortly after halftime when winger Abith showcased his creativity on the left flank, delivering a dangerous cross that experienced striker Naro Hari Shrestha converted, putting ZFA ahead 1-0.
Mumbay FC responded quickly, equalizing from a set-piece just minutes later, which shifted the momentum back in their favor.
The match continued to ebb and flow, but ZFA faced a setback when a center-back suffered a head injury during a critical moment. Mumbay FC seized this opportunity, scoring to take a 2-1 lead in the 92nd minute.
As the clock wound down, ZFA pressed forward in search of an equalizer. In a dramatic turn of events, substitute SK Asif delivered a stunning volley in the 93rd minute, finding the back of the net and securing a point for ZFA, ending the match on a high note.
Although ZFA did not secure all three points, their fighting spirit kept them at the top of Group B with a total of four points.
Overview of Zinc Football Academy
Founded in 2017, Zinc Football Academy has significantly impacted grassroots football development in rural India. Located in Zawar, this AIFF-accredited 3-star academy has trained over 5,000 young footballers since its establishment. It also hosts India's largest residential football academy for girls, providing a premier training environment focused on excellence.
In addition to athletic training, the academy emphasizes a holistic approach to development, combining elite coaching with strong academic support and comprehensive personality development programs.