Aizawl, April 30 (IANS) Aizawl FC defeated new I-League champions Bengaluru FC 2-1 in the first match of the Federation Cup riding on a late strike at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium here on Saturday.
Joel Sundays 90th minute goal proved to be the difference between the two sides after Alfred Kemah (38th minute) had cancelled out Eugeneson Lyngdohs 15th minute goal. The team went into the break 1-1 at half-time.
With Aizwal FC notching up a win, the onus lies on Bengaluru FC to perform in the second leg of the fixture which is slated to kick-off on May 3. They have a crucial away goal that they can bank upon in the second leg.
Lyngdoh opened the scoring with a shot from a distance.
Alfred's left foot shot found its mark in the 38th minute and brought his team back into the contest.
Aizwal FC continued their search for the winning goal and in the 90th minute, Joel Sunday lit up the faces of fans in the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, blasting home from close range to seal the match.
Bengalurus head coach Ashley Westwood asserted that his side can foster a comeback in the reverse fixture, "We had several chances, and could have led by 4 goals. There is a cent percent chance that we will have a comeback and get through this round."
Aizawls head coach Jahar Das said they deserved to win.
"We deserved this win as we played a good game. We are looking forward to the second leg and will play to the best of our abilities," he said.
