Hoffenheim Defeat Mizoram XI in Friendly Match

It was a humid evening in Aizawl, when German side TSG 1899 Hoffenheim played against the Santosh Trophy Winners, Mizoram in a post season friendly. The match attracted a large crowd from the football crazy city of East India and the quality of football was impressive from both sides. In the end however, the experienced Germans took home the bragging rights with a 3-0 win. 

If anyone had predicted a complete rout of the Indian side, then they were in for a surprise. The scoreline did not do justice to the home team. The Mizoram players were exuberant throughout the game and the scoreline could very easily have been 3-1 or maybe even 3-3. Nimble footed and blindingly fast, the Indians were wreaking havoc in the Hoffenheim defense. The short passes, the long through balls kept the opposition occupied for the entire 90 minutes. What was most amazing to see was the energy the players exhibited. There were no tired legs, no lacklustre moments. The players had come to enjoy and entertain and that is exactly what they did. The goals were scored by Anthony Modeste, Eugen Polanski and Jiloan Hamad.

the Hoffenheim team at Delhi

Unfortunately, the German side's physical presence and international experience ultimately cost Mizoram the game. But the match was certainly a treat to the fans and players; especially to many of the Mizoram players who will take home a memorable experience, both as footballers and as individuals

.

Follow @BratishPoddar