Chandigarh
4 May 2023
DIVYA AZAD
Delhi FC entered the final match day with added motivation to win and go through to the final round.
The Warriors were set to play out their last fixture under the overcast and cold conditions in Kashmir against the Downtown Heroes. Head coach Anwar Ali made some tactical changes in the starting lineup ahead of the vital fixture.
Delhi FC started the game on a positive note but the way it progressed was a bit frustrating with few decisions going here and there leading to the skipper getting a caution within twenty minutes of the game. The frustration continued as Downtown Heroes took the lead in this crucial fixture, and that one goal was the difference between the two teams at Half time.
The game wasn’t over yet. Delhi FC are known for their fighting spirit and never give up attitude and the Warriors were ready to put up a show in the second 45. No stone was left unturned and with a few changes made by the head coach Delhi FC soon started to dominate the middle of the park, and take control of the game.
Even after decisions not going in their favour the result finally came from the continuous attacks, just at the stroke of an hour when Delhi FC was finally awarded a penalty. Balwant Singh scored from the spot with no mistake, making it 5 goals in 5 appearances for the big man, along with 2 assists to his name. The scores were level and chances kept on coming for both sides but the game ended with a 1:1 scoreline.
It was a wait of seconds and a point was enough to see Delhi FC through to the final round, finishing the group stage at the top of the points table. It was another feat for Delhi FC as they were crowned Champions of Group A.
Bigger challenges await as a strong and confident-looking Delhi FC move to the final round of the league. The next round starts off on the 6th of May with Delhi FC facing Bengaluru United away from home, before facing Shillong Lajong at the Minerva Sports Complex on the 11th of May. The fixtures come tough but the Warriors are ready. For the last two games of the Final round, Delhi FC will face United Sports Club on the 16th of May at the Kalyani Stadium and then take on Ambernath United at home.
It’s a wait of time, as Delhi FC are once again ready to write their name in Gold and snatch rightfully what awaits – The Big Stage.
