Himalaya Harbinger, National Bureau
Corbett FC, the football club from US Nagar district headquarters, Rudrapur withstood a late surge from Ambelim SC to clinch a thrilling 6-5 victory, securing their spot in the final of the AIFF Futsal Club Championship 2023-24 held in Gujarat. This marks the first time in 24 years that a team from Uttarakhand has reached the final in this tournament. The intense semi-final clash was held at the Swarnim Gujarat Sports University in Vadodara district.
The match began with Corbett FC seizing the lead just six minutes in, courtesy of a goal from tournament top-scorer PC Lalruatsanga, marking his 15th of the campaign. Pratik Swami doubled the lead five minutes later with a brilliant solo effort, weaving past two defenders before finding the bottom corner. Swami then turned provider in the 19th minute, setting up Lalbiakzuala for a close-range finish, making it 3-0.
Ambelim SC found some respite just before halftime when Velon Joazinho Rebello assisted Savan Shamrao Lotlikar, who scored with a first-time shot. However, Corbett FC quickly restored their three-goal advantage, with Malsawmtluanga Pautu converting Lalbiakzuala’s cross 40 seconds into the second half.
The match turned into a see-saw battle as Michael Nevil Dias scored for Ambelim, only for Clive Miranda’s own goal to push Corbett further ahead. Aaron D’costa made it 6-2 for Corbett, but Ambelim fought back with goals from Ronaldo Rosebud Pereira and Fredsan Marshall, followed by Dias’ second goal, narrowing the gap to 6-5. Despite the pressure, Corbett managed the final minutes expertly to secure their place in the final.
Corbett FC will face the winner of the second semi-final between FC Thyristor, Ramhlun Venglai, and Golazo FC on Sunday.
Subhash Arora, owner of Corbett FC, said: “It’s a proud moment for us. After 24 years, a team from Uttarakhand has made it to the final. Our boys showed incredible spirit and determination.”
Coach Mohammed Rizwan said, “Our team’s resilience and determination were key in this hard-fought victory. We look forward to the final.”
