Aizawl FC clinched their first I-League title on Sunday night after a draw against Northeast rivals Shillong Lajong meant they finished a point above Kolkata heavyweights Mohun Bagan – a stunning achievement for a club with one of the lowest budgets in Indian football.
To put it into perspective, Bagan splashed Rs 2 crore on Haitian forward Sony Norde – and Aizawl’s entire operating budget is reportedly around Rs 2.5 crore. On the final day of the season, Aizawl needed at least a point and Bagan had to win (which they did, 2-1 vs Chennai City). However, Aizawl went behind early in the game but fought back with a goal from William, after which they rode a storm to hold onto the 1-1 scoreline and be crowned champions.
Here’s how Twitter reacted to the greatest underdog story of Indian football
Forget the merger/AIFF status/ISL/fair/unfair. Forget everything.
Let’s just celebrate history. @AizawlFC you’ve won our hearts#LAJvAFC— Indranil Das Blah (@indranildasblah) April 30, 2017
I didn’t really care when Leicester won the PL. But I’m smiling like there’s no tomorrow for @AizawlFC!
AND NEW CHAMPIONS OF INDIA!#LAJvAFC— Vijay.R.B (@TheBaronVj) April 30, 2017
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