Wed Sep 18 19:13:19 UTC 2024: ## Mohun Bagan Stumble in AFC Champions League Two Opener

Kolkata, India – Mohun Bagan’s AFC Champions League Two campaign got off to a disappointing start on Wednesday, playing out a frustrating goalless draw against Tajikistan’s FC Ravshan at the Salt Lake Stadium.

Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, the ISL Shield champions were unable to find the back of the net, leaving their home supporters frustrated and chanting “Go Back Molina” as the team left the pitch.

The draw adds to the growing pressure on coach Juan Ferrando, whose team has struggled for consistency in recent weeks. They have squandered two-goal leads in their last two matches, including a heartbreaking loss to NorthEast United FC in the Durand Cup final.

Mohun Bagan began the match strongly, pushing Ravshan into a defensive position. However, they failed to convert their dominance into clear-cut scoring opportunities. The closest they came was in the 19th minute when Dimitri Petratos’s shot was blocked by Ravshan’s defense.

Ravshan, however, presented a few threats of their own. In the 28th minute, goalkeeper Vishal Kaith made a crucial save to deny Muhammaddjon Rahimov a chance to score. Later, a reckless challenge by Ashish Rai earned him a yellow card and highlighted the frustration building within the Bagan ranks.

The second half brought more opportunities for Mohun Bagan, but they continued to struggle in front of goal. Jason Cummings missed a golden chance in the 76th minute, while Petratos had a goal ruled offside in the 88th.

In the end, the Mariners were left to rue their missed chances, while FC Ravshan, making their fourth appearance in the AFC Cup, held on for a valuable point.

Mohun Bagan will need to find their scoring touch quickly if they want to advance to the knockout stages of the tournament. They face Al Wakrah SC, Tractor SC, and FC Ravshan in Group A, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the round of 16.

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