Guwahati: Former champions Manipur showcased their dominance as they stormed into the Santosh Trophy semifinals with an impressive 7-1 victory over Assam. Wangkheimayum Sadananda Singh stole the show with a remarkable hat trick, leading his team to a resounding win in the quarterfinal clash held on Tuesday.
Sadananda’s scoring spree commenced early in the match, finding the net in the 11th, 16th, and 70th minutes, displaying exceptional skill and precision. His stellar performance was complemented by his teammates, with skipper Phijam Sanathoi Meetei, Ngangbam Pacha Singh, Maibam Deny Singh, and Imarson Meitei also contributing to Manipur’s commanding victory.
The momentum was set in motion by Meetei’s early goal in the 4th minute, assisted by Sadananda’s precise pass. Meetei continued to spearhead Manipur’s attacking efforts, maintaining relentless pressure on Assam’s defense throughout the game.
Sadananda showcased his aerial prowess with a diving header in the 11th minute, capitalizing on a well-executed pass from Ngathem Imarson Meitei. The Manipur team maintained their offensive onslaught, with Sadananda securing his brace shortly after, courtesy of a coordinated play orchestrated by Sanathoi Meetei.
Assam faced further setbacks when Manipur was awarded a penalty in the 20th minute, following a foul on Sanathoi Meetei inside the box. Ngangbam Pacha Singh capitalized on the opportunity, confidently converting the spot-kick to extend Manipur’s lead to 4-0.
Despite Assam’s efforts to stage a comeback, they managed to score only one goal, courtesy of substitute Joydeep Gogoi’s brilliant finish in the 64th minute. However, Manipur quickly regained control, with Sadananda completing his hat-trick with another header before Deny Singh added to Assam’s woes with a composed finish.
Imarson Meitei sealed the emphatic victory for Manipur with a goal in the 88th minute, securing a comprehensive seven-goal rout.
With this remarkable win, Manipur advances to the Santosh Trophy semifinals, showcasing their prowess and determination on the football field. Wangkhei-mayum Sada-nanda Singh’s stellar performance undoubtedly stands out as a testament to Manipur’s footballing excellence in the 77th Santosh Trophy for the 2023-24 season.
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