Subroto Cup 2023 Final: Late drama sees CISCE beat Mizoram to earn maiden trophy

Minerva Public School represented CISCE in Subroto Cup Sub Junior Boys category.

Minerva Public School of Mohali were the crowned champions of 62nd Subroto Cup Sub-Junior Boys (U-14 category) after their narrow victory over the Chawngfianga School of Mizoram. Minvera, who are representing CISCE, won their first-ever Subroto Cup Trophy, thanks to MD Azam Khan who scored the deciding goal of the match just before the final whistle.

Azam Khan found the back of the net just before the end of stoppage time with a beautiful header which cruised past the Chawngfianga goalie. The youngster helped his team to earn the prestigious Subroto Cup trophy and celebrated in immense fashion, which also saw him receive a yellow card.

Both teams quickly established their rhythm in the initial minutes of the game. The Mizoram side began to launch highly risky attacks as time wore on, but they were eventually stopped in their tracks. The Mizo attackers came dangerously close to scoring in the first quarter, forcing Minerva goalie Thokchom to be vigilant beneath the post.

After the first period, Minerva Public School regained their composure. They attempted to seize the ball in the middle of the park and tried to create a few chances in Chawngfianga School's final third, but they too failed to capitalise.

In the first half, Lalruatdika of Chawngfianga School displayed lethal attacking intent by dribbling dangerously from the flanks and going perilously close to the goal before tripping over the offside trap and failing to score. On the other hand, the CISCE side did not allow much space in their backline. As a consequence, neither team was able to make a breakthrough within the first half at the ASC Centre in Bangalore.

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When the action resumed after the half, both teams attempted to seize the momentum of the game by capitalising on the midfield. The Chawngfianga School earned a corner, and Isak Lalmalsawma came very close to scoring but unfortunately headed the ball widely.

Isak again trudged dangerously towards the goal in the 14th minute of the second half, but did not find the back of the net as his shot went over the bar. Minerva School went on trying with constructive attacks from the wings but were forced to give up in front of Chawngfianga's defence. A continuous midfield duel between Vanlalmuana and Malsom Tuboi was etched. Both the teams tried to regain their possession in search of the much needed goal.

In the last minute of the second half, magic came from Minerva Public School's Azam Khan, who scored the decider of today's match and helped his team embrace the trophy.

Key performer of the match

MD Azam Khan (Minerva Public School, CISCE)

Azam Khan had been in excellent form ever since the start of the game. He came out of the gate strong, hit the ground running and scored the game's solitary goal to inspire CISCE to win their first Subroto Cup. Prior to that, he had several opportunities to score. His relentless demeanor made sure he was constantly on the lookout for a great opportunity and seized it moments before the conclusion.

Azam not only made his state, Punjab proud today, but also scripted history for the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) by scoring the decisive goal for Minerva Public School and earning them their maiden Subroto Cup trophy.