Durand campaign begins with a big win; Mehraj delighted; Mohammedan hopeful again following the lifting of the transfer ban
Mohammedan Sporting enjoyed a highly positive day, with encouraging developments both on and off the pitch. A day after FIFA officially lifted the club's transfer ban, the club secretary expressed renewed optimism about the future. The good news was followed by an emphatic start to Mohammedan's Durand Cup campaign, as the Black-and-White Brigade cruised to a convincing victory. Head coach Mehrajuddin Wadoo also expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance.
Mohammedan Sporting enjoyed a highly positive day, with encouraging developments both on and off the pitch. A day after FIFA officially lifted the club's transfer ban, the club secretary expressed renewed optimism about the future. The good news was followed by an emphatic start to Mohammedan's Durand Cup campaign, as the Black-and-White Brigade cruised to a convincing victory. Head coach Mehrajuddin Wadoo also expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance.
Mohammedan Sporting defeated Baghpat FC of Varanasi 4-0 in their opening Durand Cup match. Fardin Ali Molla opened the scoring in the 29th minute, giving Mohammedan a deserved lead. Baghpat FC remained well organised defensively throughout the first half, making it difficult for Mohammedan to extend their advantage before the break.
The second half, however, saw Mohammedan Sporting increase the intensity and dominate proceedings. Lalremsanga Fanai doubled the lead in the 73rd minute, putting the result beyond doubt. In the closing stages, Israfil Dewan added a third goal before Fanai completed his brace to seal a comprehensive 4-0 victory.
Speaking after the match, head coach Mehrajuddin Wadoo praised his players for their display but insisted that the team would not look too far ahead. Although pleased with the winning start, he said Mohammedan Sporting are not thinking about the Durand Cup knockout stage yet and would instead focus on taking the tournament one match at a time.
Meanwhile, with FIFA lifting the club's transfer ban, Mohammedan Sporting will once again be able to register new players from September. While club officials acknowledged the financial challenges they continue to face, they reaffirmed their commitment to building a competitive squad for the upcoming I-League season. The club's primary objective is to win the I-League title and secure a return to the Indian Super League (ISL). Following the removal of the transfer ban, Mohammedan Sporting has also resumed its search for new investors and sponsors to strengthen the club's financial position and support its long-term ambitions.
